It may not have been the fairytale finish he’s always dreamed of, but leaving the Crows on good terms and receiving messages of support from fans has meant the world to Sam Jacobs.

After almost a decade at Adelaide, Jacobs will join the Giants in 2020 after a deal was made on Tuesday.

Speaking to AFC Media, the ever-reliable ruckman said although his time at West Lakes had come to an end, he would always be a “Crows man”.

“I always dreamed of the fairytale finish at the Crows with the premiership, but that’s the industry - it’s a business now - but I’m leaving on good terms, which I’m really happy about,” Jacobs said.

“[The Club means] everything to me, I dreamed of playing for the Crows and for it to become a reality is something really special and something I’m really proud of.

“Not only to play one game but to play 184 here, have nine years, win some really good games and meet some quality people.

“I’ll forever be a Crows man.”

Jacobs labelled his decision to leave as “one of the hardest things” he’s ever done.

“It was really hard [decision to make], probably something I never really contemplated considering halfway through the year,” Jacob said.

“Fortunately my form was reasonably strong in the SANFL and I had a bit of interest.

“It was hard [to tell the boys] but I’m just thankful for my time at the Crows.

“The boys have been great, the Club’s been fantastic and that’s why I’m really confident it will turn around quickly for the Crows and I can’t wait to watch it unfold.”

As tough as it is to say goodbye, the support he’s received from Crows fans has been a humbling experience for Jacobs.

He took the opportunity to thank the fans and urge them to stick with the Club as it transitions into what he described as an “exciting time”.

“First of all, thank you,” Jacobs said.

“All the support I’ve had right from when it was announced - people hitting me up in the street and saying thank you for everything - it really does mean a lot.”

“Thanks to the fans, but stick with the Club, it’s an exciting time - there is going to be change, that’s part of the industry now.

The footy club will embark on a new time and I’ll be a keen watcher and will always love my Crows.

A proud South Australian, Jacobs vowed he would return to the state in the future.

“We won’t be moving up full-time,” Jacobs said.

“I’ve loved my time here and I’ll definitely spend my years after playing in Adelaide.”