Josh Bootsma joins Thunder

PEEL Thunder has signed former Carlton defender Josh Bootsma, as he looks to revive his career in Western Australia.

The 21-year-old was drafted by Carlton with pick 22 in the 2011 NAB National Draft, and comes to the Club with 14 games of AFL experience of the past three seasons.

Bootsma’s contract at Carlton was terminated earlier this month after a number of disciplinary issues.

The medium-sized defender will add plenty of bite to the side’s defence, and could be available as early as next month’s clash with Claremont.

He was cleared from South Fremantle four days prior to the clearance deadline and will be a 10-point player on the Thunder list.

Bootsma, who is the son of Peel football Manager and former Fremantle player Brad, is in a good mindset following the recent birth of his daughter.

Bootsma’s experience with Carlton will prove to be a valuable asset, not only on field but in terms of understanding the complexities of an AFL alignment system, given Carlton’s affiliation with the Northern Blues.