In a stunning turnaround that has the AFLW world talking, Carlton's veteran forward Darcy Vescio has revealed the powerful emotional catalyst behind the Blues' remarkable charge toward finals football.
The Carlton spearhead, one of the competition's most experienced campaigners, pointed to the lingering sting of last season's disappointing finish as the primary fuel driving their current resurgence. "That feeling of missing out last year really sat with us," Vescio confessed, highlighting how the team has transformed past frustration into present-day determination.
From disappointment to determination
The Blues have emerged as one of the competition's form teams, playing an exciting brand of football that has opponents scrambling. According to Vescio, this wasn't accidental but born from honest conversations during the off-season.
"We had some really frank discussions about what we wanted to stand for as a group," Vescio explained. "That shared disappointment became our foundation. Every training session, every game, we're playing for each other and for that opportunity we missed last year."
Young guns stepping up
While Vescio's leadership has been crucial, the veteran was quick to praise the emerging talent that has injected new energy into the squad. The blend of experienced heads and hungry young stars has created the perfect environment for success.
"The younger players have brought this incredible enthusiasm and fearlessness," Vescio noted. "They don't carry the baggage of previous seasons, and that's been infectious for the whole group."
Finals within reach
With several rounds remaining in the home-and-away season, Carlton finds itself in the enviable position of controlling its own destiny. The team's improved consistency and mental toughness have been the most noticeable improvements from previous campaigns.
Vescio emphasised that while making finals is the immediate goal, the group's focus remains squarely on the process. "We're not getting ahead of ourselves. It's about bringing the same intensity every week and trusting that our best football will stand up when it matters."
The Blues' transformation from also-rans to genuine contenders has been one of the season's standout stories, proving that sometimes the strongest motivation comes from remembering what it feels like to fall short.
