Adelaide has secured two of its most promising young draftees until at least 2025 with Josh Rachele and Jake Soligo extending their contracts ahead of their first AFL season.
The Club’s first two selections in last year’s National Draft, Rachele (Pick No.6) and Soligo (Pick No.36), have both inked two-year extensions in a sign of their commitment at West Lakes.
The Victorian pair have both impressed in their first AFL pre-seasons since being recruited by the Crows in November.
Adelaide General Manager List Management and Strategy Justin Reid said the contract extensions were a mutual show of faith between the talented teenagers and the Club.
“It’s very pleasing both Jake and Josh have extended their contracts after only a short time in our program,” Reid said.
“I think that is a reflection of the environment they’ve come into, which is being driven by their teammates, coaches and staff at the footy club.
“Both guys have fitted in seamlessly over summer and earnt respect for their attitude and work ethic on and off the track.
“They’ve already shown some of the weapons that got them drafted and we are excited about seeing them in a Crows guernsey not only this year but in the long-term as well.”
Rachele, 18, said he had felt at home ever since arriving at West Lakes before Christmas.
“Coming to the Club it didn’t take me long to realise everyone is on board with the direction we are heading, there are no egos, we have an exciting young list and a good coaching group and we are all striving for success,” he said.
“Everyone has been really welcoming since I got here and I’m very pleased to sign a contract extension and keep building on my first pre-season.”
Soligo, 19, who has worked closely with reigning Club Champion Rory Laird over summer, said he was excited to be part of the Club’s future.
“All the boys have been super-welcoming and I’ve spent a fair bit of time with Lairdy, asking him heaps of questions and just trying to be a sponge and learn as much as I can,” he said.
“We have a talented young group, everyone works hard and keeps each other accountable and that’s something I really like about the Club.”