2009 season:
Van Berlo played a slightly different role in 2009, used predominantly across half back and on a wing. His elite fitness and running power was an asset coming out of defence and he was able to perform well when used through the midfield. His effort on Adam Goodes in the second half of the round 13 clash with Sydney was one of his best as he nullified the Brownlow Medallist’s influence while gathering 21 disposals and two goals himself. Van Berlo suffered a back injury in the last game of the season and was not able to return for Adelaide’s finals campaign. He was again a member of Adelaide’s leadership group.

David Noble’s 2009 review:
Nathan settled a bit more across half-back and on the wing this year. His running power off half-back was so important and he had a really good year. He missed the last couple of games with a back injury and we were disappointed he couldn’t get back in time for finals because he’s performed well in September in the past.

Career:
van Berlo was drafted by the Crows in 2004. That season he had captained the West Perth Colts team, represented Western Australia in the NAB AFL under-18 championships, was named in the WAFL Colts team of the year and starred in testing at the AFL draft camp. Van Berlo debuted in 2005 and played just 11 games. He missed five games in 2006 due to a broken collarbone but was a part of Adelaide’s finals campaign. He played every game in 2007 cementing his place in Adelaide’s 22. In 2008 van Berlo emerged as one of Adelaide’s most prolific ball winners with 225 kicks and 251 handballs, including a career high 40 possessions against Carlton in round 18.