Carter Glockner admits he had “a few options” but there was only one club for him in 2022 – ACE.
“I really wanted to return,” the striker said, “I want to be part of ACE next season and help the club climb through the league.”
Carter has now recovered from a stress fracture of the pelvic bone which limited him to just eight appearances and one goal in 2021.
But, those Premier League (BPL) games in the red and black were enough for him to see the strength of the club’s senior squad.
“I cannot remember a (playing) group as strong as the ACE first team was last season,” he said.
“Great players and the unity of the side, mentality of the side – that was just rock solid.
“Winning becomes a habit and that’s what ACE had last year with the quality of the group.”
Having spent two seasons (2019 and 2020) in the FQPL1 at Mitchelton, Carter knows the challenge facing ACE.
And after netting 22 goals in 34 games for Mitchy, is confident ACE – three-time Premiers in four years – will be competitive next season.
“FQPL2 is a good league,” Carter said, “I think there will be four or five strong teams, but I back us to reach the top two.
“The speed of the game may be a difference to last season and the overall quality of the league will be higher.”
With Josh Cartman joining Southside Eagles, the central striking role – which is Carter’s preferred position – at ACE appears vacant.
But, the former Easts, Lions and Moreton Bay United forward said: “I don’t really mind where I play. I just want to start games and score goals.
“My aim is 20 goals next season and for ACE to get promotion.”
Carter has been working hard ahead of the return to training in the new year, aiming to start with a “good fitness level”.
