JACK Silvagni will carry on the legacy of his grandfather Sergio and father Stephen by taking over the famous No.1 jumper at Carlton.

Stephen Silvagni, now Carlton list manager, played 312 games in the jumper, while his father Sergio (227 games) began the legacy in 1959 when he changed from No.20 (12 games) to No.1.

The youngest Silvagni wore No.2 in his debut season this year, but didn't request a jumper change. The idea was floated by the former holder of No.1 Andrew Walker, who retired this year after 202 games.

"'Walks' (Walker) initially approached the club about his No.1 going to me and the club asked Dad," Silvagni told News Corp on Thursday.

"Then Dad and Nonno (Sergio) presented me with the jumper on the Grand Canal with Mum and Nonna (grandmother Rita) watching on. It was very special but wasn't something I sought.

"I was lucky this year to wear No.2 guernsey, which has a great history such as John Nicholls being the club's greatest ever player and Greg Williams.

"So it was a very tough decision and I made sure I spoke with John Nicholls, who understood my decision. I guess in the end it was an offer I couldn't refuse."

The Blues are yet to allocate any of their off-season recruits or recent draftees a jumper number.

 

Jack Silvagni leads his father Stephen out for his 300th game in 2001. Picture: AFL Photos