For Crows National Recruiting Manager Hamish Ogilvie, the decision to hand Ben Keays a footy lifeline at the end of 2019 was a no brainer.

Keays had drifted in and out of Brisbane’s AFL side, lining up in 30 senior games before being delisted.

Ogilvie had kept a keen eye on the Queenslander, who the Lions selected through their academy, for the three years he was on Brisbane’s list.

And once Keays’ time at the Lions ended, Ogilvie was quick to contact the midfielder/forward, knowing he still had plenty more to offer.

As Keays approaches his 150th AFL game, which he will hit during the Crows’ clash against Hawthorn this Friday night, Ogilvie said he knew the Queenslander would make an impact at Adelaide.

“I remember his interview when he was in the AFL Academy, and I just thought ‘what a ripping bloke’,” Ogilvie said.

“I still have that memory. He was a great lad, it was a good interview and I enjoyed his company.

“He was mature (back then) and just a really good bloke. I followed him after that because I remember him being a good lad.

“He dominated the NEAFL for two years and played above the level, so he was deserving of another chance because he was far too good for that comp.”

Keays’ journey to 150 games has been one of resilience, hard work and perseverance.

The now 28-year-old joined Adelaide as a rookie at the beginning of the 2020 season but quickly cemented himself as a key cog in the Crows’ engine room, becoming one of the team’s most consistent performers.

He has gone from strength-to-strength, jointly winning Adelaide’s Club Champion award in 2024 and being named a co-Vice Captain.

Keays’ rapid rise at West Lakes hasn’t surprised Ogilvie, who always believed the former Lion would repay the faith Adelaide’s recruiting team and coaching cohort showed in him.

“I remember having a discussion with Nicksy at the end of 2019 and we decided to take Keaysy and Ben Crocker - we thought they were two good fellas who could help the young blokes,” Ogilvie said.

“It doesn’t really surprise me how well Keays has done with us.

“For him to go in the midfield, then tag players when he needed to, and embrace his role that he plays now as a hard-running, high forward - none of that surprises me because he’s of a high character and is an absolute pro.

“Even in the dark old days when he was in the NEAFL, he always played with great energy, so that adds a lot to any team.”

Ogilvie said Keays’ achievements go beyond the footy field and his work mentoring the Crows’ younger players should also be commended.

“He always goes out of his way to help, if we need a younger player to stay with someone or be looked after, he’s always put his hand up for that,” Ogilvie said.

“He’s been a really good mentor for the younger players, he’s always got a smile on his face, he’s a great teammate, doesn’t matter who you are, he's always up for a chat and says g’day.

“It’s a great effort and it’s a great story. “It’s (his achievements) all down to Ben, his professionalism, his work ethic, and his attitude.”

Adelaide faces Hawthorn at UTAS Stadium, Tasmania, on Friday at 7.10pm.

The game will be broadcast live on Channel 7, Fox Footy and Kayo.