Blue backs Tassie footy

TASMANIAN AFL player Liam Jones has thrown his support behind football in the state, saying he hopes the TSL’s crisis can be rectified to ensure Tasmanian football can “start to thrive again”.

The Blues forward-turned-defender was in Hobart this week as part of Carlton’s pre-season campaign, which included a public training session at North Hobart Oval yesterday.

Jones, who played his junior football for North Hobart before being drafted via Melbourne’s Scotch College, said the loss of clubs Burnie and Devonport from the TSL was disappointing for football in Tasmania.

“It’s obviously disappointing news to hear of their exit,” Jones said. “I love Tasmania and I know that there’s a lot of talent here, so I’m really hoping that everything can get sorted so that Tasmanian football can start to thrive again.”

After beginning as a 10-team competition in 2009, the TSL was reduced to just seven clubs this week when Burnie told AFL Tasmania of its decision to pull out of the statewide competition.

With noise beginning to mount that football in Tasmania should return to regional-based competitions, Jones said it was important to have the state’s best players competing against each other.

“Whatever’s best for football in the state, and gets the best players playing against the best would be good to see,” Jones said.

After originally being drafted as a forward by the Western Bulldogs at pick 32 in the 2008 draft, Jones said he is relishing his time spent in defence under Blues coach Brendon Bolton.

“I feel really good and a lot clearer than 12 months ago,” Jones said.

“This time last year I did the whole pre-season as a forward line player, and this year I’ve found a lot more to learn about the backline.

“I’ve felt a lot clearer on the areas that needed development. I’m just looking forward to showing some improvement when the season begins.”

Carlton will play its first game of 2018 on February 16 when the inaugural AFLX competition launches.