From childhood Bluebagger to Carlton’s leadership group.
After making the trip from the Gold Coast to Melbourne in February, pulling on the Navy Blue is still surreal for Tara Bohanna, who finds herself as a leader at her childhood club.
Determined to make her mark in the Navy Blue, the talented forward doesn’t forget the life-long memories and connection to Carlton, which she carries with her everyday on the job.
“It’s been pretty surreal putting on the Navy Blue and coming in and thinking wow, I see my name on the board,” Bohanna told Carlton Media.
“I remember running out for my first game, that was probably the most surreal experience. I had a little tear running out to the banner.”
Despite being at the Club for only eight months, Bohanna feels right at home at IKON Park, with her passionate Carlton family continuing to support her every step of the way.
“Mum’s a mad Carlton supporter … my Dad came over to Australia when he was 26 he didn’t really have a team to go for,” Bohanna said.
“On their wedding day, Mum said I’m not changing my name unless Dad changes to Carlton. From then on, we were all born into the Carlton family.”
“For Mum, she came here when she was young, so to come here and watch me play, it makes it pretty easy to come and support the team when you’re already a supporter. I guess it makes it extra special.”
“My Dad always says, I can’t believe my daughter plays for Carlton.”
The tall target has excited Carlton fans so far this season, booting eight goals in six games, while absolutely loving every aspect of her new life in Navy. In fact, she still can’t believe the support that surrounds her.
“You come into a team and you don’t really know what to expect, you kind of hope you’ll get along with everyone but it’s exceeded my expectations. They’re just a great group of people and I can’t fault their intent to get better and want to succeed as a group,” she said.
“We get to play [at IKON Park] more than anyone, and I think everyone else loves to play here because it’s such a good ground.
“Even the cheer squad, I’ve never run through a banner every single time we play. It’s pretty cool how much support we have behind us.
“Round 1 was a testament to that, the atmosphere was amazing, hopefully we can keep building that.
“I’m pretty excited for the rest of the season to see how we can go, and how far we can take it over the next few years.
“I think it’s a special group and we’re building something good.”
