THE Carlton Football Club can confirm that Elijah Hollands and Wade Derksen will wear the Navy Blue in 2026, with both players signing on as part of the pre-season Supplemental Selection Period (SSP). 

The dual signing comes after small forward Jesse Motlop was placed on the inactive list after rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament in January.  

Hollands has spent the pre-season committing himself fully to earning a spot back on the Club’s AFL playing list and today that came to fruition, after a full summer of commitment and dedication. 

A versatile forward/midfielder, the 23-year-old possesses elite endurance and clean ball use, with the ability to impact games in a number of different ways, as has been evident across his 27 games in two seasons for the Blues. 

Standing at 194cm, Derksen - who had previously signed on with the Carlton Reserves program for 2026 - brings strong aerial ability and competitiveness that will further bolster Carlton’s depth heading into the season. 

Capable of impacting at both ends of the ground, the 24-year-old was the leading goalkicker for the Giants 2023 VFL side before excelling in defence, with the following year seeing him named in the VFL’s Team of the Year squad as a defender. 

Playing 57 VFL games over his three and a half seasons at GWS, Derksen can cover the ground quickly, is powerful in the air and has the athleticism to compete consistently in one-on-one contests. He will wear guernsey No.47. 

Head of List Management Nick Austin said Hollands’ strong pre-season and Derksen’s immediate impact and professionalism since his arrival at Carlton were key factors in the Club’s decision. 

“Elijah has attacked this pre-season with a real purpose and professionalism, and today’s announcement is a true testament to the commitment he has made,” Austin said.  

“From the moment last season came to a close, his attitude, preparation and competitiveness have been at the level we expect. Elijah has real x-factor, with the capacity to play not only in the forward line but through the middle of the ground, which is a benefit for us.  

“Wade has shown significant development over the past few seasons. His versatility, athleticism and work rate stood out throughout this pre-season, and we believe he has the attributes to add real value to our squad.   

“Both players now have another opportunity at the elite level and we look forward to seeing to seeing them make the most of that this season in the Navy Blue.”