A trio of father-sons took to the field with the Crows Academies NGA team in an under-14 ‘Showdown’ against Port Adelaide at Woodville Oval on Saturday.

Max Doughty (son of Michael), Tom Shirley (son of Robert), and Xavier Bickley (son of Mark) were part of a showcase game, which gave budding stars a chance to shine.

The game closes out the third instalment of the Club’s academies ‘Be a Pro’ program, which in collaboration with the SANFL, is aimed at guiding talented footballers from the next generation aligned clubs through skill development and off-field education.

Crows Academies players are selected from NGA-aligned SANFL clubs including Central District, Glenelg, North Adelaide and Sturt, as well as sons from the Club’s Second Generation Academies.

Despite the 5.3. (38) to 13.5. (83) loss to Port Adelaide’s next generation side, there were plenty of positives for the Crows.

Mitchell Semmler (Central District) was named best-on-ground for the Crows Academies, whilst Chace Warren (North Adelaide) and Doughty (Sturt) were also standouts.

SANFL and Academies Manager Jarrod Meers said the program provided valuable development opportunities both on and off the field for emerging SA talent.

“Each year the Crows Academies ‘Be a Pro’ program adds a significant level of opportunity for young players navigating through the South Australian talent pathway,” Meers said.

“Whilst the annual under-14 NGA Academies Showdown game is a great occasion and showcases the emerging talent, just as important is our Club’s commitment to educate the boys throughout the program on the professional standards and rigour required to make it to the next level. 

“We wish all the boys the best of luck as they progress through the pathway.”

The Club’s ‘Be a Pro’ experience adds to the existing SA pathway programs and the identified players are given an insight into what is required to be a professional AFL footballer. 

SCOREBOARD

Crows Academies NGA 5.3 (38)

Port Adelaide NGA 13.5 (83) 

BEST:

Crows: Mitchell Semmler (Central District), Chace Warren (North Adelaide), Max Doughty (Sturt), Tyzailin Roderick (North Adelaide), Xavier Dempsey (Central District)

GOALS:

Crows: Mitchell Semmler 2, (Central District), Jordan Thorpe (Sturt), Tate Warren (North Adelaide), Chace Warren (North Adelaide) 1