Sam Docherty has put pen to paper on a new two-year deal with Carlton, recommitting to the club until at least the end of the 2025 season.
The inspirational Blue played 22 games last season after undergoing two rounds of chemotherapy in 2020 and 2021, ending the year second in the best and fairest count after averaging 28.4 disposals and 7.3 marks per game.
Docherty was drafted in the 2011 AFL National draft with pick 12, going on to play 144 games since his debut in 2013.
The All-Australian defender said he was "excited" to re-sign with Carlton, eager to see where the club can go in 2023.
“I am so excited to continue my football career at the Blues,” Docherty said to club media.
“The support Carlton have given me over the years has been exceptional, and I am eager to see where the next few years take us. This group is incredibly connected, and I have enormous belief in the group to go to the next level.
“This season is even more special for me as a first-time dad, it's going to be amazing to have Ruby and my wife Nat in the stands supporting me.”
Carlton Head of List Management Nick Austin said the club was thrilled to see the 29-year-old ink a new deal on the eve of the season.
“Sam is widely regarded as an integral part of the playing group, which we saw last year: he's a true Carlton person and we're thrilled to have him re-sign,” Austin said.
“Sam is one of the smartest footballers in the competition, and we are fortunate to have his experience and leadership covering all areas of the ground.
“He is also one of the most loved and respected players at the Club, and the awareness and funds he has raised for Peter Mac over the last few years have been inspirational. We are very lucky to have a person like Sam at our club.”
Carlton will get their season underway on Thursday, March 16 against Richmond at the MCG.
