Two-time premiership player Marijana Rajcic has announced her AFLW retirement after 50 games with the Crows.
The highly respected 33-year-old, known as ‘MJ’, made her AFLW debut with Adelaide in Round Three, 2018 against the Western Bulldogs and went on to play in the Club’s 2019 and 2022 Grand Final wins against Carlton and Melbourne.
Rajcic was selected by Adelaide in the 2017 AFLW Draft after just one season with Norwood in the SANFL Women’s League.
Prior to taking up Australian Rules football she played elite level soccer, including captaining Adelaide United in the W-League in 2015 before deciding to switch codes after being frustrated by injury.
Rajcic said she had been contemplating her playing future in recent weeks and was comfortable with her decision to retire.
“AFLW and the Adelaide Crows changed my life for the better seven years ago. It’s been an unbelievable journey with so many unforgettable memories and special friendships,” Rajcic said.
“I am incredibly grateful to the Club for taking a chance on a girl who played the round ball game, and to all of those who have played a part in my journey.
“A big thank you to my family for their support and to my partner Chelsea – the best thing to come out of my AFLW career.
“I also want to thank our members and supporters, as without you this great game we play wouldn’t be the same.”
Crows Head of Women’s Football Phil Harper said Rajcic has always been someone the team could rely on, on and off the field.
“For the past six seasons, MJ has been one of the most popular and valued players in our AFLW squad as well as being a huge asset to our Club,” Harper said.
“She’s been incredibly consistent in our defence and to retire as a dual premiership player, having played 50 matches, is an outstanding achievement, particularly given she only made the switch from soccer at the age of 27.
“We will certainly miss MJ’s contribution on the field, but she will always be part of our Crows family and we know she will continue to be involved with the Club and our AFLW side.”
