Adelaide midfielder Ben Keays’ deep connection with war has been a driving force behind his commitment as an AFL footballer. 

Joining Sauce and Thommo on last week’s episode of The Crows Radio Show, Keays lifted the lid on his family history and his passion for learning off those who served.  

The Crows leader said if his football journey had not led him to the AFL, getting involved in the military was something he would have pursued. 

“I actually did aspire to do that (serve in the military),” Keays said. 

“My Dad was a massive Fitzroy supporter and was responsible for so many things in me being a Brisbane Lions tragic, playing footy and sparking my interest in war. He educated me on my family history pretty early. 

“It’s a pretty special story, my great grandfather served in both wars and lied about his age in both being 16 in the first one and 45 in the second one.” 

He explained how that family history has shaped his everyday life, both on and off the football field. 

“I draw on those experiences (from my family) a lot, at the start I was probably doing it subconsciously early on when I wasn’t fully aware of it,” Keays said. 

“But Dad had always planted the seed and it just happened to be that those were my two main interests growing up, sport and war.

“It’s something I am really passionate about and something I get quite emotional about as well. I love hearing stories and I’m lucky enough to have met some people in Adelaide who have served in more recent times. 

“I actually have one as a mentor as well, who’s served in all sorts of countries, so it’s amazing (to have that support) and I try to channel it in both my job and everyday life.” 

Listen back to the third episode of The Crows Radio Show below to hear more about Keays’ journey and catch-up with former Crows defender Brent Reilly. 

The Crows Radio Show will be back again this Sunday at 9am on Triple M Adelaide and the LISTNR app, with special guests Chayce Jones and head trainer Vince Del Bono.