Our start to the season has given us a clear picture of both our progress and our challenge.
We know what our best footy looks like, and the task now is to deliver it more reliably, across longer periods.
Encouragingly, our form looks to be building and as Nicksy pointed out after the game, we took another step forward in the gutsy win over St Kilda. The slow starts have unfortunately become a trend and it’s obviously being addressed by the coaches, players and high-performance staff as a priority.
Off-field, there continues to be strong momentum across the Club.
Our membership tally has now grown beyond 70,000 – a significant milestone that reinforces the strength, loyalty and connection we share.
Stability across key partnerships is also important to us, and it’s really pleasing to extend our association with Thomas Foods International by a further three years. This agreement continues the world renowned South Australian business’ role as our official shorts partner for both the men’s and women’s teams. It ensures ongoing support of the Club’s community programs and regional engagement as well.
Our Thebarton headquarters development is tracking really well and remains on schedule for completion later this year. Irrigation works are about to begin on the main oval area ahead of turf being laid, while the training and administration facility’s façade and internal fit out is progressing at pace. There is also noticeable advancement on the western side of the precinct, including the installation of interchange benches.
A key part of the project has been the opportunity for our people to play a personal role in its delivery.
Participation in the Pledge a Picket campaign has been solid, and having a personalised picket installed around the perimeter fence of the new oval is a meaningful way to leave a lasting legacy. Click here for more details.
It will also help ensure we deliver on our promise of providing our players, coaches and high performance crew with the necessary resources to be, and perform, at their best.
But as we all know, footy clubs are about far more than results or facilities. At their heart, they are about people.
Over the past week or so, our Club has been deeply affected by the tragic passing of Jordan Dawson’s brother, Jaryd.
We will continue to wrap our arms around Jordan and his family for as long as they need.
The outpouring of support, the standing ovation at Adelaide Oval, and the compassion shown right across the football community have been very moving. Thank you. It’s times like these that make you realise just how lucky we are to be part of a club like ours.
As we continue to push forward - on the field, through the redevelopment, and in supporting one another - we should take pride in what we stand for as a club. I look forward to seeing you at the footy.
Go Crows!
Tim
