Carlton fans got their first glimpse of father-son hopeful Cody Walker on Saturday, and the kid impressed.
Walker, the son of Carlton 200-gamer Andrew Walker, got his first taste of VFL action against St Kilda after impressing for Bendigo Pioneers in the Coates Talent League to start the year.
In a see-sawing contest, Carlton ran over the top of St Kilda by five points at IKON Park with 18-year-old Walker a key contributor.
While he missed two shots at goal, the gut-running midfielder filled the stat sheet as he collected 25 disposals, 12 contested possessions, four marks, five intercepts, four score involvements and two tackles in his first game at the grade.
Former Carlton and Collingwood player, now head of development at the Blues, Jordan Russell handed Walker his first Carlton guernsey along with a speech to welcome him to the level on the morning of the match.
Russell, via Carlton VFL's social media channels, was correct about what Walker would bring on his debut.
"Twenty years ago, I rolled into this club and had the pleasure of sharing a locker with Andrew, his dad," Russell said.
"So it is a bit surreal to have the honour to present you with your first guernsey mate.
"Boys, you will love playing with Code. He runs all day, courageous, pretty competitive aren't you mate? So you are going to enjoy what he brings to the footy team. When you can support him, get around him, celebrate his strengths because you are going to see him shine today.
"To you mate... bring your strengths. There are no limitations today. Don't put any expectations on yourself either, just have some fun."
Walker is in his draft year and is expected to be a top five pick come the end of the season.
