Football would have been the last thing on Blicavs mind this time last year. The steeplechaser had his sights on only one thing, and that was to compete in the London Olympics.
The young sportsman may have missed his dream of becoming an Olympian but one-year-later another one has been created, with a chance of joining the Cats in their opening blockbuster against the Hawks on Easter Monday.
“I suppose I’ve been playing a bit of NAB Cup in recent weeks, but just going from the ruck a couple of months ago and learning the trade… I thought it could become a reality in the coming weeks,” Blicavs told Cats TV.
“If I am selected, which I’m not yet, but if I am; I’ll be very nervous but very excited.”
“Obviously with the injuries to Dawson, H (McIntosh) Vards and Westy as well, I’ve found myself playing in the ruck, having played in the forward line in the VFL last year.
“In my junior footy I did a bit of ruck work but it is very new to me. So I’m getting in there and I’m loving it. I do like the midfield and you obviously get to run from end to end which I’m ok at.”
Despite the nerves, Blicavs is confident he’ll be ready to take his position on Monday if he’s given the nod from senior coach, Chris Scott.
“I’ll be very nervous but I think I’ll handle it ok, I won’t notice it once the siren goes and the first bounce has happened,” Blicavs said.
“I’ll just focus on the ball and focus on getting it our way. I don’t think it will be too daunting.”
During his short amount of time at the club, Blicavs has learnt a lot from fellow rookie, Josh Walker, who was also elevated for this week's opening clash.
“Walks is going really well, I think he played 7 or so games last season,” Blicavs said.
“On field and off field I’ve got a tone of questions for him, asking him when I should go forward when I’m in the ruck. I guess he is one of the fittest at the club too and we play similar ruck work… he’s helped me a lot on field especially.”
