It's a strange, unfamiliar experience for Carlton fans. Our song playing at the end of a game? Crowds of people flooding our locker rooms? Upwards ladder movement? Wildcard spots?
There's a fragile sense of hope in the air.
But where is it coming from? There's a fairly obvious answer.
Since taking over as coach, Josh Fraser (clad in his infamous hoodie) has helmed Carlton through six straight wins and put September in the sights of relieved Blues fans across the country. Captain Cripps is playing like a Brownlow Medallist again, Harry McKay can't stop kicking goals and new recruits are setting the scene for future success.
As a younger fan, it's one of best Carlton streaks I've ever seen. My dad had told me stories about Carlton's glory days, but this last seven weeks might just be the first time I've been able to witness it for myself.
There is a sting of bitterness amongst the celebrations though. Our interim coach, the man who turned it all around, doesn't want to step into a permanent position.
Fraser has said over and over again that he doesn't want to take on the Blues' coaching responsibility long term, maintaining he's not ready to become a full-time AFL coach. Actions speak louder than words though and Fraser's proven so far that he's more than capable of playing with the big boys.
It's not just me who thinks so. Speaking to Fox Footy recently, ex-Blues coach Michael Voss claimed that "the results might just demand" Fraser is given the role.
"There's more time within the season clearly, so let's see where that goes from there, but you'd have to say that right now you would think he'd be at least part of that process,” Voss said.
"From what you can tell...they do seem determined to go through that process whatever that looks like. And I'm sure they'll find the very best candidate. Whether Josh is part of that, I would've thought the results will determine whether he's part of that or not."
So while I'm personally trying not to get my hopes up too high (especially with the fast-approaching Blues vs Hawks game looming over me), I personally would offer Fraser a deal.
If Carlton can manage to win the grand final, will he promise stay on as coach?
Please?
