Adelaide defender Patrick Parnell has signed a two-year contract extension with the Club after breaking into the Crows’ AFL team and impressing at the top level in recent weeks.

The 20-year-old joined the Crows via the 2021 Mid-Season Rookie Draft when he was selected with Pick No.4 from the Murray Bushrangers and Albury Tigers.

Parnell spent the second half of last season developing his game as a rebounding defender in the SANFL and this year his classy ball use, hard-running and sound decision making led to his AFL debut against West Coast in Round 12.

He has played the past four games at AFL level and is now certain to add to that after signing a new deal keeping him at the Club until at least 2024.

“I couldn’t be happier to sign on and continue my time with the Club,” Parnell said.

“They showed faith in me in the mid-season draft last year and from the first day I walked in the door I’ve felt welcomed and supported by my teammates and coaches.

“It’s been great working closely with our development coaches to improve my game and I’ve loved my time with the SANFL and AFL teams and am excited about the future.”

Adelaide General Manager List Management and Strategy Justin Reid said Parnell had earnt his contract extension through hard work.

“Paddy deserves a lot of credit for the work he’s put in behind the scenes to put himself in a position where he is not only pushing for AFL selection but performing at AFL level,” Reid said.

“The attributes our recruiting and list management team identified in him as a junior have been on show in the SANFL and in recent weeks at the highest level as well.

“He is a reliable defender with a great kick and makes good decisions and we look forward to watching him continue to develop in coming years.”