Some of Adelaide’s most famous names were back within the four walls at West Lakes, as the Club welcomed seven of its Second Generation Academy prospects for an inner sanctum experience.

Nick and Joe Ricciuto (sons of Mark), Bernie and Jack Rutten (sons of Ben), Harry Thompson (son of Scott), Tyson Bickley (son of Mark) and Jimmy Burton (son of Brett) joined the Crows squad at the Club on Tuesday, and gained a valuable insight into life as an AFL footballer.

They will also get an inside-look into game day, spending time in and around the team as they prepare for their Round Six match against St Kilda on Saturday night. 

Crows Academies manager Jarrod Meers explained how beneficial the experience would be for the boys as they continued their football journeys. 

“What we’re trying to do is help them along with their journey,” Meers said. 

“They’re all navigating through their pathways in their own way, and we’re just here to add some valuable insights on top of what they’re doing at club level and help them in any way we can.”

The activation is part of the Club’s continued efforts to grow its Second Generation Academy program. 

There are currently around 30 Second Generation Academy children playing structured football around the country, with two of the program’s graduates, Max Michalanney and Tyler Welsh, currently on Adelaide’s list.  

“From the Club’s point of view, the Second Generation Academy is probably the most exciting part of our overall Crow Academies program,” Meers said. 

“We get to engage with the past and have a lens on the future. 

“We have activations in Adelaide and Melbourne throughout the year, for players that played any number of games for the Club.

“It’s pretty cool, the players love it and it’s a great connection piece with our past players, we’re just wrapping our arms around the kids and giving them opportunities like their fathers and mothers had.” 

Another key aspect of the program is keeping past AFL and AFLW players engaged with the Club. 

“The Dad’s absolutely love it and endorse what we are doing in this space,” Meers said. 

“Giving the sons and daughters of our former players the chance to join the inner sanctum of our Club and live and breathe what their parents used to do is very rewarding for everyone involved. 

“It’s a full wrap around of connection for us which is a huge part of what we’re about as a footy club.”