Boekhorst becomes a Shark

The East Fremantle Football Club is delighted to announce that former Carlton listed player Blaine Boekhorst will be joining the Sharks for the next two seasons.

Boekhorst, a midfielder who can play inside and out with an ability to kick goals, is the sixth ex-AFL talent to join the Shark’s ranks in what has been a busy off-season for the club. The 24-year-old said he’s looking forward to being a part of East Fremantle’s future.

“I’m close mates with a few of the guys so I think there will be some really good team chemistry,” Boekhorst said.

“I’m excited to be here, I think the Sharks are heading in the right direction.”

Selected with Carlton’s first pick at 19 in the 2014 AFL Draft, Boekhorst had an impressive breakout season for the Blues where he earned himself the Best First Year Player Award for the club.

After registering 11 games in his first year and playing in the opening three rounds of 2016, a wrist injury halted Boekhort’s season. He worked tirelessly to get back on the track which saw him make a return for the final four games of the year. Despite playing 7 games and a late burst of form, Boekhorst wasn’t able to land a contract extension at the end of 2017.

League Coach Rob Wiley said his line-breaking speed and kicking skills will be a major boost for the Sharks.

“Our aggressive recruiting campaign has landed another player that will add speed, skill and ball-getting ability to a strong and talented midfield group,” Wiley said.

“Having coached Blaine at Carlton, I’m excited by not only his football talent but also his strong character.”

Prior to being drafted, Boekhorst played 44 League games for Swan Districts. A stand-out 2014 season put his name in front on national selectors. Particularly, his performance in Round 8 against the Sharks where he had season high 29-possessions and kicked a couple of goals.