The Cats have three players – Josh Cowan, Dawson Simpson and Lincoln McCarthy – on the long term injury list. That allows three rookies to be upgraded.
With Hamish McIntosh, Trent West and Nathan Vardy having interrupted pre-seasons, the elevation of Blicavs and Walker is no surprise.
Walker was an upgraded rookie last year, making his debut against Collingwood and playing seven games.
“I exceeded all of my expectations last year,” Walker said.
“I was rapt to play as many games as I did and hold my spot in the team. I’ve had a taste of what it’s like at AFL level and now I want to cement myself in the team as soon as I possibly can.”
Blicavs spent most of 2012 chasing his dream of representing Australia at the Olympics in athletics, returning to play four VFL matches. Both players showed good form in the NAB Cup series.
“The coaches are happy with my progress,” Blicavs said.
“Learning the structures has taken the most time, but I’m getting there, so far so good.”
