The Crows’ alignment and involvement in the state talent pathway is set to be strengthened with the appointment of Chris Trapp’s as its new Academies Coach – SANFL and Adelaide Football Club.

Trapp takes on the role after combining his coaching with administration in a decade-long tenure as Sturt’s Senior Football Manager, while also guiding the club’s reserves team into the past four grand finals, including the 2022 premiership.

He was also in charge of the Double Blues’ under-18 team which claimed the 2017 premiership.

As part of his new role, Trapp will replace Jack Madgen, as the coach of the male Crows Academies programs.

He will act as a link between the South Australian talent pathway and the Club, providing coaching and leadership across the male SANFL talent academies, while supporting players and coaches at NGA-aligned SANFL clubs.

Speaking to AFC Media, Trapp said he was looking forward to starting in the new role.

“I thoroughly enjoyed my time at Sturt working with great people and a great squad of players,” Trapp said.

“But when the role came up I saw an opportunity to work closely with the Crows and the state program, which was really appealing to me.

“I think the role suits me really well because my philosophy and the things I like about coaching is seeing players reach their full potential and to help develop them.

“I’m passionate about getting them into successful senior footy, and hopefully in this case onto getting opportunities at an AFL level.”

Reporting to SANFL Head of Development Heath Younie, Trapp will form part of the coaching panels for the SANFL under-18 and under-16 academies preparing for the annual National Championships campaigns.

“I am really looking forward to getting to know the Crows’ academies group and getting to see how far these guys can go,” Trapp said.

“The Club has been fantastic in terms of helping me settle in and I’ve felt very welcomed from everyone at the Crows, so it’s been great.”

Crows General Manager Football Operations and Compliance Tom Hurley said Trapp would bring a wealth of experience in developing young talent and driving successful football programs.

“Chris has played a key part in progressing emerging talent into senior football, with many of these players contributing to Sturt’s recent League premiership,” Hurley said.

“This highlights his ability to identify, develop, and elevate future talent.”