Matthew Korcheck Biography

Carlton makes four changes to its list, with Liam Sumner and Andrew Gallucci delisted, while Daniel Gorringe and Matthew Korcheck have retired.

Carlton's American rookie Matt Korcheck says countrymen Jason Holmes and Mason Cox inspired him to come to Australia and try to forge an AFL career.

"Jason Holmes, another American that came over was a big motivation and Mason Cox … those guys motivated me to get out here and try something new and really push myself," Korcheck told SEN radio.

Korcheck said his family was shocked when he told them he wanted to move to the other side of the world to play Australian rules football.

"I think when I brought it up with them at first they were like ‘what do you mean you want to move to Australia?’, and I said ‘I really want to do this’," he said.

"They’re really excited about it and know it’s a good opportunity for them to visit Australia now – they’re really happy about it."

Carlton sign college basketballer Matt Korcheck as a category B rookie on a two-year contract.

"Matt is a beast of an athlete and showed some real promise when he made the journey over in August, so we're delighted to have the chance to explore that potential further," Blues list manager Stephen Silvagni said in a statement.

"He’s a strongly built and quite powerful athlete, so when you couple that with his 208cm frame, the possibilities are endless in his development."

Korcheck caught the eye of recruiters at a Florida screening camp in April this year before spending three weeks training with the Blues in August.

He was only introduced to football a few months ago, but already has a favourite part of the sport.

"Tackling is my favourite part of the game. I love the physicality of the sport, the conditioning and just how hard the players have to push themselves," Korcheck said.

Carlton has confirmed its interest in American giant Matt Korcheck, who will train at the club in July.

If they like what the see from the 206cm, 105kg basketballer, the Blues will have first right to sign him as an international rookie at the end of the year.

The 23-year-old obviously hasn't played much Australian football but has shown tremendous athleticism while playing basketball for the University of Arizona.

Blues list manager Stephen Silvagni said Korcheck would partake in skills sessions in July, offering coaches a glimpse of his potential.

"Obviously Matt is well equipped when it comes to using a round ball, so we're looking forward to seeing how he will adapt to the oval ball," Silvagni said.

"We'll get him to take part in some light drills with our players including kicking and handballing.

"We're really looking forward to hosting Matt and welcoming him into our football club."