The Adelaide Football Club is pleased to announce it has appointed Paul Thomas as a development coach.

Thomas heads to West Lakes after a distinguished SANFL playing career with Central District which saw him win six premierships with four as captain.

The 2004 Magarey Medallist is a former Crows rookie and played eight AFL games with Essendon.

Thomas, who currently runs the football program at Henley High School, said he was looking forward to reuniting with the Club.

“I’m super excited by the opportunity,” Thomas said.

“I’m really looking forward to not only coming in to develop players, but develop my own coaching craft along the way.”

Crows Head of Football David Noble said Thomas brought great football experience to the Club.

“Paul is a quality person who comes from a successful environment at Central District Football Club,” Noble said.

“His knowledge and leadership developed through an outstanding playing career will be invaluable.”

Thomas played over 250 SANFL games in a decorated career with Central District after making his League debut in 2001.

He is a two-time best and fairest with the Bulldogs and a four-time winner of the Bob Quinn Medal as best afield in the SANFL's Anzac Day clash.

The 33-year-old captained South Australia for the fourth consecutive occasion in this year's State Game against Western Australia.