Carlton coach Michael Voss has conceded he “fell short” as a leader in 2025 and issued a call for unity ahead of a huge 2026 campaign.
Despite a poor 2025 season where the Blues finished with a win-loss record of 9-14, the Carlton hierarchy has backed Voss to lead them next year.
In a candid speech at Carlton’s best and fairest night, Voss admitted the Blues had “culturally defeated” themselves this season, but vowed to come back better than ever next year.
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“As a leader, I fell short on what was required’,” Voss said.
“That has been a difficult reflection. I let you down, and that sits really uncomfortably with me.
“I am deeply grateful for the chance to keep leading this incredible place.
“But no expectation in this room will ever exceed the responsibility I feel for our club, our people and our families.”
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Voss said the Blues’ 57-point defeat to Collingwood in round 17 was the “most humbling” moment of his football career.
“Driving home, I was left with my thoughts … it was the most humbling moment of my career,” he said.
“Not just reflecting on the loss, but the heaviness we all carry.
“Together, inside the locker room, and outside in the stands, we as a club have culturally defeated ourselves.”
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Voss wanted to cast an eye forward, saying the Blues will bring more fun into the football program next season.
“I could tell you what you’d like to hear tonight, but tonight is (about) what we all need to hear,” Voss said.
“Right now, we are not a very resilient football club.
“This club is powerful if we choose it to be, but the fight must be out there, not in here.
“My greatest lesson is this: chasing excellence can’t come at the expense of enjoying the journey.”
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Departing free agents Tom De Koning and Jack Silvagni were both in attendance, as was star forward Charlie Curnow, who has been linked to Sydney and Geelong as potential landing spots for 2026.
The Blues are hoping to acquire Eagle Campbell Chesser, Docker Liam Reidy and Bulldog Buku Khamis in this year’s trade period.