Highly respected South Australian businessman Jim Hazel is retiring from the Adelaide Football Club’s Board of Directors after more than a decade.

Hazel joined the Board in 2010 and has served as Deputy Chairman and Chairman of the Finance and Audit Committee.

He has played a key role in many achievements such as the move to Adelaide Oval and emergence of an AFLW team, while also assisting the Club navigate its way through challenging periods.

Chairman John Olsen announced Hazel’s retirement at the Club’s Annual Members Meeting on Wednesday night and thanked him for his significant contribution.

“Jim has been an influential and dedicated servant of the Club over a long period of time,” Olsen said.

“He indicated his intention to stand down late last year at the same time as former Chairman Rob Chapman but ultimately agreed to extend his stay to help oversee what has been a smooth and successful transition period.

“Jim’s sage advice and wealth of experience has been invaluable to not just me but many others over the years, and we look forward to his continued presence at our games and events as a passionate Crows supporter.”

Hazel considers it a privilege to have served the Club and leaves having forged many lifelong friendships.

“There is so much to reflect upon from the last decade but without doubt the acquisition of an AFLW licence has been the most important in my view,” Hazel said.

“Initially, the AFL had no intention of having a women’s team in South Australia so to convince them otherwise was one thing but to then push ahead and have such a dominant side has been incredible.

“Importantly, it has also created opportunities for many women and young girls to enjoy the game as players, coaches, administrators and fans.”