He was one of Adelaide’s most loyal servants, a true clubman and fan favourite but for former Crow Richard Douglas, there was one aspect of footy he enjoyed the most.

Douglas, who played 246 games with the Crows, reflected on his lengthy career on the latest episode of The Crows Radio Show.

The 35-year-old claimed Adelaide’s 2010 Club Champion Award and won the Phil Walsh Best Team Man Award twice.

And as the ex-midfielder’s career progressed, Douglas said he took it upon himself to help the youngsters coming through the ranks at Adelaide.

“I really did enjoy mentoring the youth coming through,” Douglas said.

“I was lucky to have a couple good mentors when I was young and I just really cared for the group and young guys coming through and got a real buzz out of it myself.

“That probably reflected in those (the best team man awards) and that’s probably something I walk away really proud of.

“Now it’s named after the great Phil Walsh, which is pretty special, too, that’s a nice memory for me.”

Douglas’ AFL career began when Adelaide selected him with Pick No.16 at the 2005 AFL National Draft.

“Now it’s named after the great Phil Walsh, which is pretty special, too, that’s a nice memory for me.

He then went on to debut in the Round 21 Showdown in 2006.

“It (the debut) was huge,” Douglas said.

“We were flying at that stage of the year, we were top of the ladder, getting close to finals.

“We actually lost that one to Port who were not playing in the finals - that often happens in Showdowns - the underdog gets the choocies.

“I was good enough to stay in the side Round 22 and the first final against Freo which is still one of the highlights of my career - playing a final in my third game.

“Coming from behind and winning that was really special and probably took it for granted as an 18, 19-year-old.”

Douglas, who works within St Peter’s College’s football program, went on to play two seasons with Norwood in the SANFL.

He said he would always cherish his footy career, especially the time he spent at West Lakes.

“I made some lifelong friends and some fantastic memories,” Douglas said.

“It’s a time that goes super quick but on reflection you become proud of what you did achieve.

“At the time you probably walk away a little bit empty, not achieving the ultimate (a Premiership) but I am really happy with my journey in footy.”

Tune in this Sunday at 9am on Triple M Adelaide for the next instalment of Sauce and Thomo.