AnySelected

It was a seemingly ordinary Saturday afternoon in 2010 at Melbourne’s iconic Docklands Stadium. Adelaide Crows were facing off against the formidable St Kilda, the reigning Grand Finalists. But for Phil Harper, then a key figure within the Crows’ system, the game sparked a profound realisation – a shift was needed to elevate the club’s connection to South Australian football and nurture emerging talent.

Harper, having recently observed a powerful six-week run by the Crows’ SANFL affiliate, Central District, felt a growing disconnect. While the SANFL side was performing admirably, the link between it and the AFL team felt tenuous. The potential for a robust, mutually beneficial relationship – one that developed players, strengthened community ties, and provided a vital pathway for aspiring footballers – was being underutilised.

“Watching that game at Docklands, it just hit me,” Harper recalls. “We had a really strong side at Central District, but the connection to the AFL wasn't there. Players weren't getting the opportunities they deserved, and the supporters weren't fully engaged with the SANFL program.”

The seed of an idea began to germinate. Harper envisioned a more integrated SANFL program, one that wasn’t simply a feeder system but a genuine extension of the Adelaide Crows. A program that provided consistent game time for fringe AFL players, a proving ground for young prospects, and a source of pride for the club’s passionate South Australian fanbase.

The journey wasn’t without its challenges. Convincing the club’s hierarchy of the need for change required a compelling argument – one that highlighted the potential benefits for player development, community engagement, and ultimately, on-field success. Harper meticulously presented his vision, outlining the framework for a revamped SANFL program and demonstrating how it could contribute to the Crows’ broader ambitions.

The result? A significant investment in the SANFL program, leading to a more structured and integrated approach. The Crows began to strategically utilise the SANFL as a vital testing ground for emerging players, allowing them to hone their skills and gain valuable experience in a competitive environment. Fringe AFL players were given consistent opportunities to regain form and push for selection. And the club’s connection to the South Australian community deepened, as supporters rallied behind the Crows’ SANFL team.

Today, the Adelaide Crows’ SANFL program stands as a testament to Harper’s vision. It’s a thriving entity that continues to develop talent, strengthen community ties, and contribute to the club’s overall success. The single game at Docklands in 2010 proved to be a pivotal moment, sparking a transformative journey that has reshaped the club’s relationship with South Australian football and paved the way for a brighter future.

The story of the Crows’ SANFL program is a powerful reminder that sometimes, the greatest insights can come from the most unexpected places. A simple afternoon at Docklands ignited a spark that ultimately led to a more robust, integrated, and successful football program for the Adelaide Crows.