Fraser Named Carlton Coach After Leading AFL Revival

Josh Fraser has officially been named the full-time senior coach of Carlton, capping a remarkable revival of the club's AFL season under his interim leadership. The appointment follows a period where Fraser guided the Blues to an impressive 10 wins and a single draw from 13 matches, steering them from a 1-8 start to an unlikely finals appearance.

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Even if you removed the last 14 weeks, on his presentation alone Josh would have been the successful candidate.

Carlton's chief executive, Graham Wright, emphasized that Fraser's presentation alone was sufficient for his appointment. He noted that Fraser emerged as the standout candidate after a thorough selection process, impressing the coaching panel with his credentials and leadership qualities. Wright highlighted Fraser's ability to foster a professional and united environment, contributing to the club's collective pursuit of excellence.

Fraser, a former Collingwood and Gold Coast ruckman, initially ruled himself out of contention for the permanent role to alleviate pressure on the club during his interim tenure. However, the success achieved under his guidance, including securing a top-10 spot with a draw against the Western Bulldogs, solidified his position. The club's board finalized his appointment on Monday.

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Having run all candidates through a thorough and detailed process, for Josh to have emerged as the stand-out candidate speaks volumes of not only his credentials as a coach, but also the qualities he brings as a leader.

Reflecting on his journey, Fraser stated, "I have always had ambitions to be a senior coach and what the last three months have done is give me the absolute belief that I am ready, and most importantly ready for this exact opportunity, to be senior coach of the Carlton football club." He added, "When I was told that I had been appointed as senior coach, that sense of appreciation and responsibility I felt in that moment will never be lost on me."

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He is a respectful whole-of-club leader who fosters a professional and united environment, with everyone contributing to our collective pursuit of excellence.

Fraser acknowledged the support of those around him, stating, "I firmly believe I am a product of amazing people around me." He expressed his privilege in being part of a team committed to daily improvement and assured stakeholders that the club aims to continue raising its standards.

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I have always had ambitions to be a senior coach and what the last three months have done is give me the absolute belief that I am ready, and most importantly ready for this exact opportunity, to be senior coach of the Carlton football club.