2021 Adelaide Football Club Yearbook by Adelaide Football Club

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2021YEARBOOK

CHAIRMAN HON JOHN OLSEN AO Y E A R B O O K 2 0 21 C R OW S A D E L A I D E

Hon John

OLSEN AO

This year has been one of substantial growth both on and off the field. From our young players gaining valuable match day experience through to launching a football academy for children with special needs and establishing a member engagement panel, there is a strong foundation which augurs well for our Club’s future.

Our quest is to always play finals however we are ambitiously rebuilding our men’s playing list and history says you must not take shortcuts and patience is required. Importantly, we added high end talent like our top draft pick, Josh Rachele, to an equally talented and hard-working squad, which is supported by elite coaches and football staff. We have created an environment where they can reach their potential and it is underpinned by a focus on team success. The post-season arrival of the internationally experienced Darren Burgess, who now oversees our high-performance program, and the signing of former Swan Jordan Dawson in what was a competitive process with our crosstown rival, underscores the optimism and momentum we are building. Our AFLW team made its third Grand Final in five years and while the result did not go our way, it was a great achievement. We have an enviable record and upon reflection it is important to recognise we have twice been premiers since the competition began in 2017. The sustained competitiveness highlights the impact our female players are having on the game more broadly in South Australia, with surging participation numbers among the many positive outcomes. The growing sense of connection and belonging extends to our SANFL side, which not only maintains our ties to the League from which we were born but provides a platform for our Club’s emerging talent. We provide an important talent pathway to elite football. On-field is where we are judged the most but without strong off-field support we would not be able to resource or put in place the right structures to allow our coaches and players to achieve their potential.

Our strategic agenda has been re-shaped. The entire AFL industry found itself in financial duress because of COVID-19 and it was appropriate to review all areas of our operations. We successfully exited and sold our baseball and esports franchises which underscores our football-first focus. As the largest sporting club in South Australia, we also embrace our responsibility and standing within the community. Given the times in which we now live, our programs are evolving however, more than 3500 students still benefited from our STEMfooty program which promotes and inspires learning in science, technology and maths. Our grassroots girls football carnival also involved more than 3000 Year 7 students. I would like to acknowledge our corporate partners who have remained loyal throughout the pandemic. The longevity of our relationships and ability to drive shared value is one of our strengths. Nearly half of our partners are committed to multi-year agreements while a number of new organisations have come on board in recent weeks, with a successful and well-known national brand in Hungry Jack’s headlining the list as a Principal Partner. At the centre of our planning for the future is a new headquarters. While we have not yet settled upon our preferred location, there has been a significant amount of due diligence on two sites – the former Brompton Gasworks and Thebarton Oval. There is a level of complexity to this project and many varied components needing to be addressed. This is an inter-generational decision that will ensure our players, coaches, staff, sponsors, members, and supporters have a world class facility to call home for decades to come. It will also be a key pillar which cements us as a destination club for players, with a strong culture and connection to its members and fans.

We are extremely fortunate to have such a passionate and committed membership base, which grew by 10 percent to more than 60,000 this year. To all members, I offer a sincere thank you for your loyalty and engagement. For the second straight season, COVID-19 presented challenges and we appreciate your flexibility, understanding and patience on a week-to-week basis. Members are the backbone of football clubs like ours and with restricted match day access, we sought to engage with you through other means and in particular our digital platform. We have one of the biggest digital footprints in the AFL, if not Australian sport. There has and will continue to be a focus on inner sanctum access, with our football department willing to open its doors to a level not seen before at the Club. With leadership from our Board of Directors and an experienced football person like CEO Tim Silvers, there is stability and a focus on continual improvement across all areas of the organisation. I would also like to thank the management and staff, who despite pandemic-forced cuts of nearly 40 percent, go above and beyond on a daily basis. Two themes stood out from a member survey conducted earlier this year and they were pride and excitement. It is clear we have a shared optimism for the future and together we are committed to delivering the type of success we all want. Stay with us for we are on a good journey.

Regards,

Hon John Olsen AO Chairman

Tim

SILVERS

AE C FO L WT ISME NS II O LV R ECROSA C H Y E A R B O O K 2021 C R OW S A D E L A I D E 4

On-field success will always be our number one priority and we are maximising our football spend in line with the AFL’s soft cap. We have assembled an elite team of coaches led by Matthew Nicks, as well as first-class high performance, recruiting, medical and welfare staff, to give the rebuild of our men’s playing squad every chance of succeeding. As any long-time football person will tell you, it is foolish to start predicting the number of wins and losses or ladder position this far in advance of a season. However, I can assure you we are focussed on continual improvement, as well as consistently playing in a manner which makes you proud, next year and beyond.

The Australian sporting landscape has changed dramatically however our Club is in a good position as we cautiously look towards a future beyond COVID-19. There are many pandemic-related challenges of which we are aware and no doubt a great deal more that are yet to be realised, not to mention the usual trials and tribulations that impact a professional football club. Since arriving in Adelaide earlier this year, I have been amazed at the passion that exists for our Club, as well as the game in general. I had previously visited Adelaide Oval in my former role working at an opposition club and experienced the atmosphere of a full house, which by the way is second to none. But it is the day-to-day moments as you go about your everyday life in this city which quickly made me realise how much the Crows mean to so many people. It is inspiring and I consider it a privilege and an honour to lead this Club.

We are accustomed to being ultra-competitive in the AFLW and it is a credit to everyone involved in our program since its inception. Sustained success is what we are chasing. We have and always will aspire to be the Club of choice for women and young girls, particularly in South Australia, who want to fulfil their potential as a player, coach, administrator or even enjoy the game as a fan. Our broader strategic direction has shifted and while we have sold our baseball and esports franchises, I am a firm believer in clubs likes ours needing to have alternative or non-traditional revenue streams if they are to prosper. We are always on the lookout for fresh opportunities and at the appropriate time, we will consider investing. Our proposed new training, administration and community facility, which is central to our future planning, may also lend itself to driving commercial returns. There are a lot of quality people at the Club and unfortunately, they are fewer in number after job cuts brought about by the pandemic. We want to be known for having a people-first culture where our staff are given opportunities to grow and develop. Current workloads are not sustainable so in coming weeks and months we will look to rebuild our workforce, albeit with a measured approach. There will be a focus on enhancing, and in some cases expanding, our day-to-day presence in the community.

Strengthening our connection with Members and fans like you is at the forefront of our minds as we turn up for work each day. Content has become increasingly important given the limitations placed on match day access in recent times and we look forward to sharing some new concepts and initiatives in the lead-up to the men’s and women’s seasons. Hopefully we can soon get back to good old fashioned in-person meetings, gatherings and events more frequently too! We are also developing new membership offerings that cater for people’s busy lifestyles, evolving priorities and different household budgets, so every Crows fan has the chance to sign up and join us on the journey. While only three decades old, our Club’s history is punctuated with many and varied achievements by individuals and teams alike. It is imperative that we honour and celebrate our heritage and ensure there is a meaningful link between our current players, coaches and staff, and those that came before them. Last but far from least, I would like to sincerely thank you for your support and commitment this year. Together we will make the Club stronger and successful in every way. I look forward to seeing you at the footy in 2022!

Regards,

Tim Silvers CEO

A F L WS ESNE INOI RO RC OC AO CAHC H Y E A R B O O K 2021 C R OW S A D E L A I D E 6

Matthew

NICKS We are quite rightly judged on wins and losses but we must also view this year’s performances in the context of our rebuild.

There was on-field growth with every player, as well as coaches and football staff, embracing hard work and humility. It is this desire to get better which gives me great confidence and optimism for the future. We had senior players like Rory Laird, Paul Seedsman and Taylor Walker take their games to another level and we finished the season with 41 of 44 players on our list able to say they had played at least a game of AFL. There were three rising star nominations with Lachy Sholl, Riley Thilthorpe and Harry Schoenberg. Growth can be rapid and at other times gradual however we are heading in the right direction, building a foundation for success which is underpinned by a willingness to prioritise others. We are also a competitive team that thrives on the contest and we want it to be part of our DNA. Among the steps forward this year was the frequency with which we showed this attitude and it is something we, and hopefully you, can reflect on with pride.

On behalf of the coaches and players, I would like to say thanks to you, our Members, for your continued support during another challenging season in which COVID-19 once again made us realise going to the footy and sitting at a packed Adelaide Oval should never be taken for granted. As a football department, we often talk about your passion and commitment, as well as the importance of training and performing to a standard that makes you proud. I would also like to pay tribute to David Mackay, Tom Lynch and Daniel Talia for their varied but equally significant contributions they have each made to our Club. They can enter the next phase of their lives knowing they had long and wonderful careers, and are welcome back through the doors at any time. Thanks also goes to Jake Kelly and Ronin O’Connor, who we wish well for their futures. We also farewelled three of our football staff - Player Welfare Manager Emma Bahr, Development Coach Brent Reilly and Head of High Performance Matt Hass. After dedicated service, they all accepted exciting opportunities elsewhere and we wish them well.

For many people in the Crows family, game day results like the wins over Geelong and Melbourne are all the evidence you need to show that we are on the right track. However, some of the biggest moments of our season were achieved behind the scenes and away from the cameras and bright lights, and they took place on the training track, in the gym or change room. It’s the investment of time in strengthening our connection with each other and fostering the sense of belonging that is bringing together the considerable talents of people at our Club. Our senior players play an important role in this space and I would like to thank our Captain Rory Sloane and our other official leaders in Matt Crouch, Brodie Smith, Tom Doedee and Tom Lynch. They were assisted by other experienced teammates who are educating, supporting and nurturing a wonderful group of talented young men. They are embracing the challenges of making it at the highest level. We look forward with great belief that with the benefit of time we will continue to grow and as we do, so will your pride in the team. Stay on the journey because exciting times are ahead.

Matthew Nicks AFL Senior Coach

A F LW S E N I O R C O A C H Y E A R B O O K 2021 C R OW S A D E L A I D E

Matthew

CLARKE Season Five of the AFLW competition was an absolute cracker as the standard of the competition rose significantly once again and the margin between success and failure narrowed further.

To claim the Minor Premiership and reach the Grand Final in such an elite competition required enormous dedication and effort from all our players and staff and we are immensely proud of those efforts. Ultimately we are deeply disappointed that we were unable to overcome a worthy opponent and claim our third premiership but we celebrate the season for all the challenges we did meet and for the continued development of our people.

To our major partners Workskil and BHP, thank you for your continued support of our AFLW program. In challenging economic times to have the stability that your backing provides is crucial and it enables our players to continue to thrive. That you have been with us since our foundation will never be forgotten or underestimated. When I reflect on our season, it is the quality of our people and the way in which they carry themselves that I am most proud of. Their gratitude and connection, their courage and resilience and the joy they bring to each other and everyone attached to our club is inspiring. Their influence extends beyond the boundary and they make coaching this team one of the best jobs in the world. Football is a team sport and individual accomplishment is always a by-product of team performance. It is however important to acknowledge achievements such as those of our All Australians in Erin Phillips, Sarah Allan and Ebony Marinoff.

They were also recognised as our leading goal kicker, best defensive player and club champion, respectively. Anne Hatchard was also recognised by her peers as their Players’ Player. Our captain Chelsea Randall was voted the League’s Most Courageous player and that courage and leadership was exemplified by the manner in which she carried herself through the devastation of missing our Grand Final through concussion.

in sport but we are confident that we have a program in place and individuals prepared to do the work necessary to continue to be at the forefront of this emerging and exciting competition.

We have several players who will be pursuing other challenges next year, so to Chloe Scheer and Renee Forth we give enormous thanks, and to our inactive players in Rhi Metcalfe, Jess Sedunary and Deni Varnhagen we equally say thank you and good luck next year. All are premiership players of our club and have helped establish a strong foundation for future success.

Matthew Clarke AFLW Senior Coach

To all our members, thank you for your support thus far and we can’t wait to see you again in Season Six. Go Crows!

As a club, our AFLW story thus far has been remarkable and we can’t wait to build upon the legacy already created. There are no guarantees

AA S FL NW F LS SE ENNI OI OR RC CO O A AC CHH Y E A R B O O K 2021 C R OW S A D E L A I D E

Mick

GODDEN It’s a privilege to coach the SANFL team and to be entrusted with the next generation of Adelaide Football Club players. And what a great bunch of players, and development players, we had. To give you a snapshot of our season, we used 51 players this year - so it was a significant challenge to blend the groups together, with many getting a taste for the first time. The first half of the year was essentially just teaching, every week, how to execute the game plan and dealing with situations in games, how to counteract those situations and make decisions under fatigue and pressure. As the year drew on, we added layers to that game plan. As players got better at handling how to play senior footy against men, they started to show some really exciting signs. That didn’t necessarily equate to wins and losses, but we began to see a brand of footy that we want to see in the future. We had six nominees for Rookie of the Year through the SANFL, which is a testament to the work coaches Brent Reilly and Matthew Wright did with our development group. We used 54 per cent of our AFL squad playing through the SANFL at some point, and we played 23 debutants. I’ve been involved in the SANFL for a long time, and three or four per year is usually the maximum. To have 23 debutants this year is a credit to the guys that put their hand up, but also a credit to the listed guys that worked with those fellows to try and help them through.

I’d like to thank everyone - whether it be a volunteer, assistant coach, senior coach or AFL players that attended games and supported our players - who have been very close to our SANFL team. Without you, we wouldn’t have a game to put together. For me this year, the highlight wasn’t a win, or even seeing young players make their AFL debut. It was about our Club ethos of prioritising others. I loved it when Nicksy came in and first mentioned that last year, because it’s a phrase that’s now become part of our culture. This year, I had the privilege of watching a listed player tell a development player where to stand whilst trying, himself, to perform to get into the AFL team. For me, that’s what it’s all about. When everyone’s left and you see players picking up rubbish and looking after our support staff. There was a lot of growth as footballers, but the highlight for me was the growth as people. I know that will stand them in good stead as the future goes on. I’m privileged enough to see this team grow from the inside and I know that we have a very clear pathway. It’s going to be amazing as a Member to watch that story unfold - to see these players in their infancy to where they’re going to get to. I understand it’s been a rocky road at times, and there will be more bumps along that road, but I can see where we’re heading and it’s really, really exciting.

Mick Godden SANFL Senior Coach

2021 HONOUR ROLE Y E A R B O O K

CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER Tim Silvers

A D E L A I D E

C R OW S

2021

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Hon John Olsen AO (Chairman)

(Deputy Chairman)

Linda Fellows

Rod Jameson

Warren Randall

Hon Kate Ellis

Richard Fennell

Mark Ricciuto

Stephen Roche

Nick Takos

AFL

A F LW

SANFL

MEN’S SENIOR COACH Matthew Nicks

WOMEN’S SENIOR COACH Matthew Clarke

SENIOR COACH Mick Godden

MEN’S TEAM CAPTAIN Rory Sloane

WOMEN’S TEAM CAPTAIN Chelsea Randall

CAPTAIN Matthew Wright

LEADERSHIP GROUP Tom Doedee Tom Lynch Brodie Smith Matt Crouch

LEADERSHIP GROUP Angela Foley Sarah Allan Eloise Jones

CLUB CHAMPION Kieran Strachan

CLUB CHAMPION Rory Laird

Shanti Berggren

CLUB CHAMPION Ebony Marinoff

CROWS

SUPPORTER GROUPS The Adelaide Football Club is proud to have the support of fans and Members around Australia and thanks each and every one of those who throw their passion behind the Club. If you would like more information about Crows Supporter Groups, please see below for contact details.

SOUTH AUSTRALIAN SUPPORTER GROUPS sUPPORTER Groups

contact name

contact details

Adelaide Metropolitan Crows Supporter Group

President: Peter Kauschke

Peter: 0439 990 134, csg.president@bigpond.com

Secretary: Livianna Conserva

Livianna: 0458 276 974

South East Crows Supporter Group

President: Trevor Roberts

Trevor: 0407 333 687, treman@internode.on.net

Secretary: Marylyn Salievic

Marylyn: 0438 582 897, marilyn.salievic@bigpond.com

Eyre Peninsula Crows Supporter Group

President: Jan Regan

Mobile: 0428 823 490

Riverland Crows Supporter Group

Email: reegs2330@yahoo.com.au Secretary: Jenny Sindos

Mobile: 0407 641 932 Email: msindos@bigpond.net.au

Northern Areas Crows Supporter Group

President: Ian McLean

Ian: 0419 231 309

Secretary: Jill Martin

Jill Martin: 08 8642 5975, jillmartin@internode.on.net

Fleurieu Crows Supporter Group

President: Andrew Benson

Email: aben0685@internode.on.net

Rainbow Crows Supporter Group

President: Brett McAloney

Mobile: 0479 710 029, president@rainbowcrows.org

Secretary: Kay Young

Facebook: facebook.com/rainbowcrows

Web: adelaidecrowsfsg.com

I N T E R S TAT E S U P P O R T E R G R O U P S sUPPORTER Groups

contact name

contact details

Melbourne Crows Supporter Group

Melbourne Based Coordinator: Debbie Campbell

QLD Crows Supporter Group

David & Lyn Fairlie

NT Crows Supporter Group

President: Kevin Jenkins

Email: kjenkins1946@gmail.com

ACT Crows Supporter Group

President: Vanessa Little

Vanessa: 0419 802 534, vklittle@gmail.com

Secretary: David Benger

David: 0413 088 717, croton@webone.com.au

NSW Crows Supporter Group

Nick Peters

Email: crowsnsw@gmail.com

Matthew Angus

Facebook: facebook.com/CrowsNSW/

Mobile: 0405 477 487 Email: soupy1212@gmail.com

Email: d.fairlie@imb.uq.edu.au | lfairlie@mac.com Facebook: Adelaide Crows QLD Supporters Group

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LAIRD

2021 Malcolm Blight Medal Final Leaderboard Rory Laird

123

Ben Keays

120

Paul Seedsman

105

Brodie Smith

Tom Doedee

Taylor Walker

Jake Kelly

Reilly O’Brien

Jordon Butts

Rory Sloane

2021 CLUB

CHAMPION Midfielder Rory Laird capped a sensational individual season when he claimed the Malcolm Blight Medal and coveted Gold Jacket at the Club Champion Awards night in late August. The 27-year-old transformed himself this season from one of the best defenders in the AFL to one of its premier on-ballers. Laird played all 22 games this season and averaged 32 disposals, 6.8 clearances and almost six tackles per game. He had a season-high 40 disposals twice against Collingwood in Round 12 and in the Round 23 win over North Melbourne. Laird polled 123 votes to win by just three, in front of fellow midfielder Ben Keays who has now finished top five in the award in his two seasons at the Club.

Over the journey, Laird has been renowned for his preparation and professionalism. Laird’s stellar season was further recognised as he won the Members’ MVP Award and the Players’ Trademark Award. Adelaide’s Club Champion award is calculated by coaches rating every player with a score from 1-10 after every game this season.

WATCH:

Rory Laird’s Club Champ Speech

WATCH:

Rory Laird’s Season Highlights

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CHAMPION Congratulations to all our award winners for 2021.

A D E L A I D E

C R OW S

2021

Y E A R B O O K

2021 CLUB

RORY LAIRD

TOM LYNCH

RORY LAIRD

Laird’s top season was further recognised with the Players’ Trademark Award.

Tom Lynch claimed the Phil Walsh Best Team Man Award for the second year in a row.

Laird took out his third award at the Club Champion event, thanks to the Members’ vote.

The award, voted on by the playing group and coaches, is presented to the player who embodied the players’ trademark throughout the season.

The 31-year-old was recognised for his outstanding character both on and off the field.

It came after he flourished in 2021 after transitioning from defence into a permanent midfield role.

Adelaide’s Best Team Man award has been presented every year since the Club’s inaugural season and recognises the most selfless player who lives and breathes ‘team first’.

It was the third time Laird has won the award, having taken it home in 2015 and 2018.

P L AY E R S ’ T R A D E M A R K

The honour was previously known as the Chelsea Phillis Coaches Award and has been won four times by captain Rory Sloane.

BEST TEAM MAN

It was renamed in 2015 to honour late Crows coach Phil Walsh and his ‘team-first’ mantra.

MEMBERS’ MVP

WATCH:

Walker’s Best Goals In 2021

NED M CHENRY

HARRY SCHOENBERG

TAYLOR WALKER

McHenry won the Dr Brian Sando OAM Trophy for his outstanding professionalism and dedication in his preparation to play at the highest level.

Homegrown midfielder Harry Schoenberg received the Mark Bickley Emerging Talent Award after an outstanding second season in the AFL.

Taylor Walker topped the Club’s goal-kicking for the fifth time in his career with 48 majors from 17 games in 2021.

The 21-year-old small forward worked hard this year to get his body right and build up the strength needed to match it with the best in the competition.

Schoenberg played all 22 games in 2021, building on a strong start to his career when he played eight games in 2020.

Walker is the Club’s all-time leading goal kicker with 489 and he produced a stunning start to the season with bags of five, six and six goals in the first three games.

The Mark Bickley Emerging Talent Award recognises the achievements of a player under the age of 21 as the best ‘all round ‘emerging talent.

The 31-year-old kicked a goal in every game he played except one for the year which also included four-goal hauls against Hawthorn and Richmond.

DR BRIAN SANDO OAM

The award was introduced in 2012 to honour the memory of long-serving Crows doctor and life member Brian Sando OAM, who passed away due to illness.

E M E R G I N G TA L E N T

LEADING GOALKICKER

MARIN OFF

2 A0 F2 LW 1 CSLEUNBI OCRH AC M OA PC I OHN Y E A R B O O K 2021 C R OW S A D E L A I D E

The AFLW Club Champion was hosted in April following the 2021 season, in which Adelaide earned a grand final berth.

Midfielder Ebony Marinoff was crowned the Crows’ 2021 AFLW Club Champion. Marinoff’s stellar season notched a tallytopping 265 votes, finishing ahead of Anne Hatchard with 251. Under this year’s system, Adelaide’s senior coach and three line coaches graded each player’s performance on a 0-8 scale following each round for a maximum collective vote of 32. Hatchard and Marinoff fought neck-andneck through the count, with fewer than 15 votes separating the pair throughout the minor round.

WATCH:

Ebony’s Season Highlights

For the first time in Adelaide’s history, a new tradition was started with all of the AFLW best and fairest winners being fitted with Gold Jackets, similar to their male counterparts.

Read the Full Story here Among other honourees was Sarah Allan, who was named Best Defender for 2021. Powerhouse forward Erin Phillips took home leading goalkicker with 14 majors, ahead of Crows new recruit Ashleigh Woodland (9) and AFLW Mark of the Year winner Danielle Ponter (9). Best and Fairest runner-up Hatchard took home the Players’ Player award, as voted for by her teammates.

WATCH:

Ebony’s Club Champ speech

2021 AFLW Club Champion Final Leaderboard Ebony Marinoff

265

Anne Hatchard

251

Erin Phillips

233

Sarah Allan

227

Stevie-Lee Thompson

174

Chelsea Randall

162

Justine Mules

159

Najwa Allen

157

Marijana Rajcic

150

Ashleigh Woodland

139

WATCH:

Kieran’s Club Champ speech

STRA CHAN

Two-time winner Erin Phillips (2017, 2019), Chelsea Randall (2018), Anne Hatchard (2020) and Ebony Marinoff (2021) were presented with the Gold Jackets at the Club Champion dinner in August.

The ruckman took out the State League Club Champion Award following a consistent SANFL season. Strachan finished on 90 votes, ahead of James Borlase (77 votes) and Ronin O’Connor (73 votes). The big man dominated in the ruck, averaging 36.4 hit-outs and 16.1 disposals across 15 SANFL matches this season. He also booted three goals and averaged 3.9 clearances.

WATCH:

Kieran’s Season Highlights

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2021

DEBUTS Adelaide celebrated each of its 11 AFC debutants this season by inviting a former player into the rooms to present them with their guernsey pre-game.

Nine of the 11 players to pull on a Crows jumper for the first time were making their AFL debut as well. The debutants started in Round One, when Sam Berry, James Rowe and Mitch Hinge all featured in the win over Geelong and continued through to Round 23, when Lachlan Gollant kicked a goal on debut in the Crows’ triumph over North Melbourne. Matthew Liptak was in the Adelaide Oval rooms to present Rowe with his guernsey in Round One, having played in the same Crows team as Rowe’s father Stephen in the 1990s. “Number 31 – his dad wore it,” Liptak said in his address to the group. “Jimmy, what a fantastic effort mate. A man that’s been rewarded for hard and tough work … boys you know he will stand tall and you will stand tall

for him because he is that bloke you want fighting next to you, he’s that bloke you know will give it all as you would.”

“Because that’s the thing that everyone has told me about you, you’ve got this great natural talent and just be instinctive and enjoy it.”

Dual premiership captain Mark Bickley presented fellow South Adelaide product Brayden Cook with his guernsey before the Round 21 Showdown.

At the SCG in Round Two, Ryan Fitzgerald was on hand to present Nick Murray with his jumper before his first game.

“It literally is the best years of your life in terms of growing up and spending time with your mates, and I just found the more that I invested in the footy club the more it gave me back,” Bickley said. “And in terms of the footy – I reckon your first game is like a free hit, it’s like batting against a no-ball, so just go out there and do what you do, I’m sure you’ll play your role but there’s going to be moments you’ll get it and just do what comes naturally.

“I know you’ve done the hard work, I know you were running next to dad’s car at 1am on the farm, the boys have told me you’re a tough bugger,” Fitzgerald said. “Nicksy has put full trust in you and you can do this, if you play a role today, you can play a role at the Adelaide Football Club for the rest of your career.”

Riley Thilthorpe Round 6 v Hawthorn, Blundstone Arena. AFC Player No.244 Guernsey presented by: John Klug

James Rowe Round 1 v Geelong, Adelaide Oval AFC Player No.240 Guernsey presented by: Matthew Liptak

AFC AFLW Debutants

Sam Berry

Lisa Whiteley

Lachlan Matthews

Round 1 v Geelong, Adelaide Oval

Round 1 v West Coast Eagles,

Round 1 v South Adelaide,

AFC Player No.239

Mineral Resources Park

Flinders University Stadium

Guernsey presented by: Tony Modra

AFC Player No.50

AFC Player No.165

Mitch Hinge

Ashleigh Woodland

Fischer McAsey

Round 1 v Geelong, Adelaide Oval

Round 1 v West Coast Eagles,

Round 1 v South Adelaide,

AFC Player No.241

Mineral Resources Park

Guernsey presented by: Nathan Van Berlo

AFC Player No.51

Nick Murray

Teah Charlton

Y E A R B O O K

Round 2 v Sydney, SCG

Round 1 v West Coast Eagles,

AFC Player No.242

Mineral Resources Park

Guernsey presented by: Ryan Fitzgerald

AFC Player No.52

Jackson Hately

Hannah Munyard

Round 6 v Hawthorn, Bludstone Arena

Round 4 v Brisbane Lions, Hickey Park

2021

AFC Player No.243

AFC Player No.53

A D E L A I D E

C R OW S

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AFC AFL Debutants

Guernsey presented by: Ian Callinan

Ronin O’Connor Round 9 v West Coast, Optus Stadium AFC Player No.247

Round 13 v St. Kilda, Cazaly’s Stadium AFC Player No.246 Guernsey presented by: Peter Vardy

Luke Pedlar

AFC SANFL Debutants James Borlase Round 1 v South Adelaide, Flinders University Stadium AFC Player No.159

Jay Boyle Round 1 v South Adelaide,

Round 16 v Brisbane, Adelaide Oval

Flinders University Stadium

AFC Player No.247

AFC Player No.160

Guernsey presented by: Chris McDermott

Brayden Cook

AFC Player No.166

Tariek Newchurch Round 1 v South Adelaide, Flinders University Stadium AFC Player No.167

Ronin O’Connor Round 1 v South Adelaide, Flinders University Stadium AFC Player No.168

Riley Thilthorpe

Guernsey presented by: Scott Stevens

Josh Worrell

Flinders University Stadium

Riley Clamp Round 1 v South Adelaide,

Round 1 v South Adelaide, Flinders University Stadium AFC Player No.169

Josh Worrell Round 1 v South Adelaide, Flinders University Stadium AFC Player No.170

Timothy Baccanello Round 1 v South Adelaide, Flinders University Stadium AFC Player No.171

Billy Frampton Round 2 v West Adelaide, Hisense Stadium AFC Player No.172

Round 21 v Port Adelaide, Adelaide Oval

Flinders University Stadium

AFC Player No.248

AFC Player No.161

Guernsey presented by: Mark Bickley

Nick Murray

Oliver Clarke

Round 2 v West Adelaide, Hisense Stadium

Lachlan Gollant

Round 1 v South Adelaide,

Round 23 v Nth. Melbourne, Adelaide Oval

AFC Player No.162

AFC Player No.249 Guernsey presented by: Peter Cavan

Flinders University Stadium

Daniel Jackson Round 1 v South Adelaide, Flinders University Stadium AFC Player No.163

Bailey Marshall WATCH:

Sam Berry told about AFL debut

Round 1 v South Adelaide, Flinders University Stadium AFC Player No.164

AFC Player No.173

Luke Pedlar Round 3 v Eagles, Maughan Thiem Kia Oval AFC Player No.174

Brayden Cook Round 3 v Eagles, Maughan Thiem Kia Oval AFC Player No.175

Jackson Hately Round 3 v Eagles, Maughan Thiem Kia Oval AFC Player No.176

Chris Hall Round 3 v Eagles, Maughan Thiem Kia Oval AFC Player No.177

Jake Cook Round 4 v Cental District, X Convenience Oval AFC Player No.178

Ben Salt Round 4 v Cental District, X Convenience Oval AFC Player No.179

Mitchell Marini Round 5 v Sturt, Unley Oval AFC Player No.180

Oliver Davis Round 6 v Port Adelaide, Adelaide Oval AFC Player No.181

Patrick Parnell Round 9 v North Adelaide, Prospect Oval AFC Player No.182

Lachlan Gollant Round 10 v Sturt, Unley Oval AFC Player No.183

Samuel Kennedy Round 14 v South Adelaide, Victor Harbour Oval AFC Player No.184

Sam Berry Round 16 v Port Adelaide, Adelaide Oval AFC Player No.185

James Rowe Round 16 v Port Adelaide, Adelaide Oval AFC Player No.186

Cameron Hutchens Round 16 v Port Adelaide, Adelaide Oval AFC Player No.187

Hayden Kernahan Round 16 v Port Adelaide, Adelaide Oval AFC Player No.188

Jack Lewis Round 16 v Port Adelaide, Adelaide Oval AFC Player No.189

Max Hodges Round 18 v Cental District, X Convenience Oval AFC Player No.190

Sam Renney Round 18 v Cental District, X Convenience Oval AFC Player No.191

A D E L A I D E

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2021

Y E A R B O O K

2021 FA R E W E L LS

2021

RETIREES Adelaide farewelled three of its biggest names in style in the Round 23 win over North Melbourne this season.

David Mackay and Tom Lynch both celebrated with final-quarter goals while, pre-game, the crowd acknowledged the long-standing contribution of Daniel Talia who was sidelined due to injury. For Mackay, it brought down the curtain on a 15-year career which began when he was drafted by the Crows from Victoria in 2006. The popular team man played 248 games – ranking him ninth overall for games played in Club history – and he called time on his career while he was still in the AFL team and performing at a high level. “I feel so grateful to have walked in the doors of the Adelaide Footy Club 15 years ago and have some amazing memories, some challenges along the way as well, but overall it’s been a brilliant journey,” Mackay said.

WATCH:

David Mackay farewells teammates

“To the coaching staff I’ve had throughout my career, and all the teammates I’ve run out alongside, I’ve been so privileged to play with some of the greats of the game and the football Club and to play with the young guys coming through now has been a real pleasure. “To the staff and the Board for giving me the opportunity to come to work every day and love what I do, it’s been a great privilege. “And the Members and supporters, it’s been an absolute honour to run out in front of you and represent this Club. “You’re so passionate and I will certainly miss running out in front of a full house at Adelaide Oval but cherish all the times I was able to do that, so thank you. “The best memories I have are winning finals, the prelim final against Geelong (in 2017) was something else. “But to be honest it’s probably the little things you take for granted – the locker room and relationships you build up over so long and ultimately that’s the thing I’ll miss the most going forward.” Lynch departed West Lakes after 158 games for the Crows and a career tally of 164 after he started his AFL journey with St Kilda. He joined Adelaide in 2012 and became an integral part of the team’s forward line, kicking 199 goals for the Crows including a 10-goal haul against GWS in 2013.

Talia’s decorated career at West Lakes spanned 200 games and included a host of Club and industry awards. He was drafted from Victoria in 2009 and won the AFL’s Rising Star Award in 2012. The reliable defender won the Malcolm Blight Medal in 2014 and was named All-Australian in both 2014 and 2016. Other departures from the AFL team this year include Jake Kelly after 110 games in eight seasons and Ronin O’Connor after three games. Adelaide’s AFLW team also bid farewell to two 2019 premiership players in Chloe Scheer and Renee Forth. Highly talented Scheer overcame serious injuries including two knee reconstructions while Forth arrived at West Lakes as an experienced recruit from GWS and both played in the 2019 grand final win over Carlton.

2021 TRADE + DRAFT WRAP Y E A R B O O K

Traded from Sydney Swans

A D E L A I D E

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Jordan Dawson

Pick #6

JOSH RACHELE

JAKE SOLIGO

Height: 180cm

Weight: 78kg

Position: Small forward/midfielder

Position: Midfielder

From: Murray Bushrangers/Victoria

From: Eastern Rangers/Victoria

“He’s exciting, he’s powerful, he’s confident, he’s got a lot of what we like and a lot of what we need and that was the part of the ground we wanted to try and address with the power,” Ogilvie said.

“Jake is a really well-rounded and well-performed player who played under-16s for Vic Metro so he’s been on our radar since then,” Ogilvie said.

“The games (he played) at the start of this year, the game against Geelong, he had a good body of work and he performed very well. He’d been the midfielder/forward that kicked the most goals.”

Pick #36

“He played really well this year and it’s not often we all agree in the (recruiting) office, but he’s a player we all agreed on and he was pretty high on our talent order.”

2021

TRADE+ DRAFT Throughout the 2021 AFL Trade and Draft period, five new players were added to Adelaide’s list. Highly talented former Swan Jordan Dawson was the first to join the Crows during the Trade Period. The 24-year-old South Australian played 64 games since being drafted by Sydney in 2015 and finished third in the Swans’ 2021 best-and-fairest.

The classy left-footer is set to add versatility and experience to a young squad. Adelaide was then active during the Draft with picks No.6, 36, and 44, before selections in the Pre-Season and Rookie Drafts. The Club took Luke Nankervis with pick No.2 in the Pre-Season Draft, before re-selecting Ben Davis in the Rookie Draft. Here’s a look at each of the Club’s new draftees with National Recruiting Manager Hamish Ogilvie giving his thoughts.

After declaring his intention to return to his home state, Dawson nominated Adelaide as his club of choice after touring facilities and meeting with coaches and players.

Pick #44

ZAC TAYLOR

Height: 180cm Weight: 74kg Position: Midfielder/forward From: Calder Cannons/Victoria “Zac can get a lot of the ball and has real speed to get outside with his agility,” Ogilvie said. “It’s a speed/agility combo and again he was really high on our talent order so we are very pleased to bring the two boys in together.”

Pre-Season Draft

LUKE NANKERVIS

Height: 190cm Weight: 76kg Position: Midfielder/forward From: Sandrinham Dragons/ Victoria “Luke has been super impressive since the start of the year,” Ogilvie said. “He’s a 190cm midfielder who can play wing with high level running power, high level speed and agility - he’s a really good athletic package.”

2021 TRADE + DRAFT WRAP Y E A R B O O K 2021 C R OW S A D E L A I D E

2021 AFLW

TRADE+ DRAFT Adelaide bolstered its playing list with athletic and skilful local talent at the AFLW Draft ahead of the 2022 AFLW season. The Crows selected Zoe Prowse with pick No.17 following the Sturt player’s impressive season. Adelaide then used pick No. 20 to claim Glenelg premiership defender Brooke Tonon, who has an elite kick, before drafting West Adelaide’s Abbie Ballard with pick No. 34. Prowse won the Double Blues’ 2020 best and fairest award, was named All Australian for her efforts at the under-19 AFLW Championships and was also a member of the SANFLW’s Team of the Year. Tonon represented South Australia at the under-19 AFLW Championships, while Ballard is a small forward/midfielder, renowned for her accurate left foot kicking.

The Club added to its experience by welcoming back delisted free agent Jasmyn Hewett. The 184cm key position/ruck started her AFLW career with the Crows where she was originally drafted at pick No. 16 in the 2017 National Draft, before moving to the Gold Coast Suns in 2020 as an AFLW expansion player. Adelaide also signed 22-year-old Jasmine Simmons as a rookie on its AFLW list. Originally from Broken Hill, Simmons returned from three years in the US where she played as a guard on the Oregon State University basketball team. Adelaide also re-signed the majority of its 2021 list, including two-time League best and fairest winner Erin Phillips. Three female coaches were added to the Crows AFLW coaching staff for the 2022 season. Courtney Cramey, Emma Sampson and Leah Kaslar have joined Senior Coach Matthew Clarke and Assistant Coach Peter Caven, while former GWS, Port Adelaide and Gold Coast defender Jack Hombsch is the Club’s new AFLW Head of Development.

Brooke Tonon > NAB AFLW Draft - Pick 20 from Glenelg

< Zoe Prowse NAB AFLW Draft - Pick 17 from Sturt

2021 TOP 10 MOMENTS Y E A R B O O K 2021 C R OW S A D E L A I D E

2021

TOP 10 MOMENTS 1. AFLW Prelim triumph

3. Thrill-thorpe

Having won four of their last five games to finish minor premiers, the Crows booked a home AFLW preliminary final against Melbourne.

The Crows came from 30 points down at half-time against St Kilda in Cairns to win by six in Round 13.

After a tight first half they broke away in the third quarter and won 5.3 (33) to 1.9 (15). Ebony Marinoff was outstanding with 35 disposals and 13 tackles.

2. Upset of the season The Crows produced the upset of the AFL’s home-and-away season with a thrilling one-point win over ladder leading Melbourne at home in Round 10. Nick Murray’s late tackle on Max Gawn provided a spark in momentum for the Crows, leading to two goals from Darcy Fogarty and Taylor Walker – from 50m. Adelaide held on to win, 15.6 (96) to 14.11 (95).

4. A Dream start Adelaide started its AFL season in the best way possible with a 12-point win over 2020 grand finalist Geelong at Adelaide Oval. Rory Sloane and Taylor Walker ran out with their kids, the team got a standing ovation at quarter-time and James Rowe kicked two goals on debut.

5. Home Grand Final Ultimately not quite the result Crows fans were dreaming of but a brave performance nonetheless in front of 22,000 fans at Adelaide Oval. Without injured captain Chelsea Randall who was concussed in the preliminary final, the home side pushed Brisbane but came up three goals short, 6.2 (38) to 3.2 (20).

It was thanks to draftee Riley Thilthorpe who kicked the game-winning goal over his head from the top of the square with just one minute remaining and the team hung on.

WATCH:

Thilthorpe’s Thrilling Goal

6. Fond farewell

9. Showdown victory

Adelaide sent Daniel Talia, Tom Lynch and David Mackay out in style with a 44-point win over North Melbourne to finish the season in Round 23.

Adelaide’s SANFL team enjoyed its best win of the year against bitter rival Port Adelaide at Adelaide Oval in Round 16.

Shane McAdam was nominated for mark of the year while Lynch and Mackay both kicked goals in the last quarter, as did debutant Lachlan Gollant.

Lachlan Gollant kicked four goals as the Crows won 13.4 (82) to 10.9 (69) in a blow to the Magpies’ finals hopes.

7. Record chasers

10. Straight shooting

Adelaide kicked its highest score but fell one point short of the AFLW record with a 70-point drubbing of Gold Coast at Norwood in Round 6.

Adelaide kicked an incredible 15.0 goals before registering a behind against the Hawks in Launceston in Round 6.

Danielle Pointer kicked four goals as the Crows won comfortably, 13.7 (85) to 2.3 (15).

Among them was Riley Thilthorpe who had a debut to remember with 5.0 including three in five minutes in the second quarter.

8. Laird on fire Soon-to-be-crowned Club Champion Rory Laird had a night out against the Hawks with 36 disposals and two goals in the Round 19 win. Brodie Smith kicked a goal from inside the centre square and Lachlan Murphy kicked one from an impossible angle in the pocket in an impressive display.

WATCH:

Adelaide V North Melbourne Round 23 Highlights

32 A D E L A I D E

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Y E A R B O O K CROWS HISTORY LOCKER

Crows History

LOCKER

The Adelaide Football Club has a rich history and this year celebrated 30 years since it entered the AFL. The Adelaide Football Club has a rich history and this year celebrated 30 years since it entered the AFL.

There are a lot of unheard stories throughout the site that promote how the Crows became the team it is today.

To help connect the past with the present, the Crows History Locker - an online museum featuring a plethora of information about South Australia’s first AFL Club - was launched last year.

Every past player, AFL, AFLW or SANFL, and official has played a part in the Club’s history and that should be celebrated, which is what the Crows History Locker aims to do.

The Heritage Committee, which includes John Reid (Chairman), Sam Jacobs, Terry Moore, David Burtenshaw, John Condon, Trevor Jaques, Neil Smith, Robin Bennet, Ray Titus, Alan Trewartha and Ian Shuttleworth, worked hard to grow and evolve the site in 2021.

As part of the Club’s celebration of its 30th anniversary, a new podcast was launched to celebrate all its Hall of Fame inductees.

The website is broken down into pages covering AFL, AFLW and the SANFL team history and also individual history.

Hosted by Sam Jacobs, inductees including Mark Ricciuto, Bill Sanders and Malcolm Blight - returned to West Lakes to discuss their time at the Club.

It is also home to the Club’s honour boards, with timelines showcasing the Club’s history and details on every coach, captain, Club Champion, All Australian and Life Member.

The History Locker: Hall of Fame series gave fans a fresh insight into the Club’s most influential people.

VIEW:

Crows History Locker

2021 AFL

INDIGENOUS GUERNSEY

34 A D E L A I D E

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Y E A R B O O K 2021 INDIGENOUS GUERNSEY

For Ben Davis, the opportunity to design Adelaide’s Sir Doug Nicholls Round guernsey this year was also a chance to discover more about his identity and Torres Strait Islander culture. The 24-year-old worked with mentor Eddie Peters – a Torres Strait Islander musician, singer and songwriter – and designed a guernsey that represented his people, the Club and the city. Central to the design is a dhoeri, a traditional headdress which is a significant part of Torres Strait Islander culture, alongside the Hammerhead shark, fish, spears and a turtle which is the totem for the Torres Strait Island people.

Other elements included the Kaurna shield representing that we are on Kaurna Country as well as a Crow foot to symbolise the legacy of all players on the culture of the Club. “The design symbolises me finding out a bit more about my culture, a bit more about myself and diving into things I didn’t think about too much before,” Davis said. “Having this opportunity and being tied to the Club in this way forever will be something I can show my kids one day. “It is one of the proudest moments of my life.”

“It is one of the proudest moments of my life.”

36 A D E L A I D E

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Y E A R B O O K 2021 INDIGENOUS GUERNSEY

2021 AFLW

INDIGENOUS GUERNSEY Adelaide’s AFLW Indigenous guernsey design was a joint project involving forward Danielle Ponter and renowned Aboriginal visual artist Elizabeth Close. The guernsey was worn in the AFLW’s inaugural Indigenous Round as well as in all away games throughout the season. The design featured concentric circles and rings representing the Adelaide players, while a bold navy line told of their journey, weaving in and around the circles and connecting them together. There are also dots that sit on top of the circles to show the various support players have including family, coaches, partners, colleagues and staff.

“Elizabeth is an incredible artist and it has been an honour to work with her to take our idea and see it turn into reality,” Ponter said. Close said the design told of the powerful story of women.

“I was really honoured to work and yarn with Danielle and come up with a design which speaks to the resilience and the fearsomeness and strength of women,” “The artwork itself is built around the concept of journey, and in speaking to Danielle, it was clear how much the players feel a sense of shared purpose and are strengthened by their fellow teammates on this journey together.”

2021 INDIGENOUS WRAP Y E A R B O O K 2021 C R OW S A D E L A I D E

2021

INDIGENOUS WRAP Welcome To Country As part of Adelaide’s ongoing commitment to reconciliation and celebrating Indigenous culture, the Club again filmed a Welcome to Country video that was shown before home games at Adelaide Oval. The video featured Kaurna representative Jack Buckskin alongside the Club’s men’s Indigenous players Tariek Newchurch, Shane McAdam and Ben Davis with the leadership group consisting of Matt Crouch, Tom Doedee, Rory Sloane, Tom Lynch and Brodie Smith. It was filmed on the Adelaide Oval footbridge over the River Torrens.

Smoking Ceremony In February, proud Kaurna and Narrungga man Jack Buckskin performed a smoking ceremony for Adelaide’s AFL and AFLW players before training. “Over the past three years the Club has been working towards normalising an annual smoking ceremony for both our AFL and AFLW playing squads,” Adelaide’s Indigenous Programs Manager Jeremy Johncock said. “This year was no different when long-time supporter Jack joined our playing groups at their recent training sessions, and coincidently, this aligned with the anniversary of the National Apology. Jack explained the purpose behind smoking ceremonies and how it represents a fresh start.”

WATCH:

AFL Welcome To Country 38

WATCH:

AFLW Welcome To Country

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2021

COMMUNITY

2021 COMMUNITY Y E A R B O O K 2021 C R OW S A D E L A I D E 40

This year, The Adelaide Crows Foundation continued to use the power of sport to engage, enrich and inspire the lives of children and youth in our community. 2021 marked the launch of the Inclusive Academy, a four-week football program aimed at helping young people with special needs develop key football skills and forge new friendships. The program, which is part of Variety the Children’s Charity’s commitment to work with the Crows saw more than 100 children and their families forge a bond with the Club’s players and staff.

WATCH:

Inclusive Academy: Liam’s Opportunity Kym Meers, whose daughter Izla was part of one of the sessions, said the experience had helped her feel included. “This opportunity is absolutely amazing,” Meers said. “I don’t think until you’re here you’ll understand the impact something like this has for children with disabilities.” In 2021, the Crows Foundation launched its Boots for Boxes campaign with South Australian charity Treasure Boxes, which aimed to offer South Australian children equal opportunities to participate in sport and its benefits by repurposing football and soccer boots for kids and teens without access.

More than 300 boots were donated by Crows fans, staff and players, with 50 of those distributed to the Port Augusta community during a cultural visit by the Club.

READ:

Players give back to Port Augusta community Away from footy, the Crows partnered with Treasure Boxes and AFLW co-major sponsor BHP to deliver much-needed support to regional South Australian families. More than 500 boxes filled with clothes, toys and books were supplied to children in regional areas across South Australia, in particular Indigenous communities, in and around Port Augusta, Port Pirie and Whyalla.

WATCH:

What Treasure Boxes means to Wayne Milera The Foundation’s STEMfooty program was delivered to more than 3,500 students across 40 schools this year, including the Club’s first two regional participants. Designed to address the significant growth in STEM-related jobs and the continued decline in student engagement in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics, the program incorporates STEM with sport in a fun, interactive way. The 2021 Adelaide Crows Foundation NGA Scholarship, which aims to remove barriers for a member of the Crows Academies program in the pursuit of reaching the highest level, was awarded to emerging Mount Gambier footballer Joe Judd.

As well as his local club commitments, the Year 11 student is part of the South East Football Academy, Adelaide Crows Next Generation Academy, and was a member of the Glenelg Football Club’s under-16 side. The scholarship will help cover the cost of travel, assist with his schoolwork and help give Joe the opportunity to chase his football dreams. Outside the Adelaide Crows Foundation, the Club enjoyed continued success with the Optus Crows Cup despite the challenges of Covid-19. The Crows Cup Carnival was started by Crows AFLW captain Chelsea Randall in 2016, to help provide a fun and safe environment for schoolgirls across South Australia to give football a go, get active and learn about the female football pathway. This year, more than 4000 students participated in 19 carnivals, as well as a showcase carnival which formed the curtain raiser before the Club’s SANFL game versus Woodville-West Torrens.

AFLW co-major partner BHP and the Club threw their support behind the Port Augusta Girls Football Program, to create more opportunities for aspiring AFLW athletes in the region. The competition hosts teams from three local clubs – South, West and Centrals – across three age groups, with more than 100 young footballers playing in games held on Sunday afternoons. From one community to another, the Crows joined forces with Toyota to give back to bushfire-ravaged Adelaide Hills residents. As part of the Toyota Tree Day initiative, Crows players packed boxes of trees for Lobethal Primary School students to replant to replace those destroyed in the fires. Both the Adelaide Crows Foundation and the wider Club look forward to continuing their commitment to the South Australian community in 2022 and thank our Members and supporters for their contribution.