Adelaide defender Brodie Smith says he will forever be grateful for the start Henley Football Club gave him.

The 31-year-old, who has played 231 AFL games for the Crows, began his junior career with the Sharks and visited the club with teammate Rory Laird ahead of the Crows’ Toyota Good for Footy Round against Collingwood this Sunday.

The round celebrates Toyota's significant contribution to Australian football, from the grassroots to the elite level.

It coincides with the launch of the 2023 Toyota Good for Footy Raffle, which raised almost $10 million for grassroots clubs around Australia

Speaking on this week’s episode of The Crows Show, Smith said he still had a strong connection to the Sharks and enjoyed returning to the club that gave him his start.

“I have a lot to thank Henley for,” Smith said.

“I just feel really connected to the Henley area and I still have mates who play senior footy here, so I keep an eye on them and the club that catapulted me into the Eagles and then into the AFL system.

“There was a huge sense of community playing here (and) it’s a connection that I’ve carried throughout my journey at the Crows.”

"It’s a connection that I’ve carried throughout my journey.

Smith said grassroots footy was important to help foster a sense of belonging and love of sport in youngsters.

“I still have contact with my junior coach from back in the day, so there’s a real sense of community and pride around the footy club,” Smith said.

Laird said Toyota’s sponsorship helped the junior clubs survive.

“Sponsors like Toyota are so important to these local clubs because it allows the kids to keep playing, it helps them get equipment, it allows them to enjoy their time here and have a sense of belonging,” Laird said.

Henley Sponsorship and Merchandise Coordinator David Haskard said the football club was grateful for the help Toyota gave.

“The Toyota Good for Footy raffle has been an outstanding way for our Club to raise much-needed funds for projects,” Haskard said.

“Raising money at clubs is incredibly hard and we look for community support.

“But what Toyota has been able to give us is the opportunity to raise sizable amounts of money for future projects.”

Also on The Crows Show this week, utility Mitch Hinge talks about his season so far, while the Club’s Head of Strength and Power speaks about the Crows’ gym routine.

The Crows Show airs on Channel 7 this Sunday at 12.30pm.

To register your grassroots football club for easy fundraising, click here.