Adelaide recruit Archie Ludowyke is embracing his new Club, describing teammates as his “new family” on his first day as a Crow.

The Crows selected Ludowyke, a key forward from Sandringham, Victoria, with Pick No.50 on the second night of the 2025 Telstra AFL Draft last week.

Ludowyke’s emotions overflowed when his name was read out, after the 18-year-old thought his dream of landing on an AFL list was drifting.

The 18-year-old joined Adelaide’s first-to-four-year players, as well as a number of senior teammates, on day one of pre-season on Monday.

Speaking to the media, Ludowyke said he had no problems saying goodbye to his friends and family, and was keen to kick off his new life in Adelaide with the Crows.

“I’ve always said I can move out of home, and I think settling in with the boys has been really good, and getting to know them - they’re my new family now,” Ludowyke said.

“It was good celebrating with family and friends, realising my dream has come true is the best feeling I could’ve had.

“It happened quickly and I am pretty stoked to be here. The move has been quite smooth.”

Ludowyke presents as a strong forward option known for his aerial ability and vertical leap. 

In 2024, he booted 13 goals in nine games for Sandringham and was ultimately called up to the Vic Metro under-18 side.

He said being able to hone his craft alongside the likes of all-time Club leading goalkicker Taylor Walker, Riley Thilthorpe and Darcy Fogarty would help him take his game to the next level.

“It’s a surreal feeling, just being here and getting stuck in,” Ludowyke said.

“I really just want to crack in and work hard.

“(I’ll be) sticking with them, trying to learn off them, they’re obviously amazing players and I think they can really help me develop my game and make me a better player.”