Adelaide AFLW new recruit Brooke Smith says it's been a whirlwind month since she first caught the eye of Crows recruiters. 

The Crows signed Smith last week as a replacement player for forward McKenzie Dowrick, who was moved to the inactive list while she recovers from a knee reconstruction.

Speaking to AFC Media, the Victorian utility said she hadn’t expected the call-up from the Crows so soon, but the opportunity to play AFLW was too good to pass up.

“It was an opportunity I just couldn’t say no to,” Smith said.

“I played in the under-23 All Stars vs AFLW Academy game about a month ago and after that, they (Adelaide) contacted me and said they were interested.

“I wasn’t actually expecting anything for this year, but they said a spot might open up, so it all happened really quickly.”

Smith, who has played football since she was four years old, was overlooked in her draft year (2022) after battling ankle and quad injuries.

“I had an ankle reconstruction in 2021 which carried into my draft year so I only ended up playing about six games in that time,” Smith said.

“I also strained my quad so I didn’t play a lot of footy last year which was tough.

“It was still the goal (to be drafted) but I didn’t have a lot of expectations considering I hadn’t played.”

Since arriving at West Lakes, the 19-year-old has moved in with teammate Keeley Kustermann’s family to help her adjust and settle into her new home.

Smith said the move was made far easier, thanks to the support she had received from her new Club. 

“It is a bit daunting but everyone has been so welcoming and looked after me so far,” Smith said.

“It’s a bit different, that I’ve moved to a whole different state so I think it's just going to take a bit of time to get used to. 

“They have been so welcoming and just tried to make it feel like a normal home for me.”

Smith, who was set to begin training with the side this week, said she was keen to get started.

“I’m looking forward to everything, the whole experience of it,” said Smith.

“I just want to get the best out of this opportunity and try to become a better player and better person.

“I’m excited for what the girls can do and what’s to come.”

Adelaide will open its 2023 AFLW campaign with a home Showdown against Port Adelaide at Norwood Oval on Saturday, September 2. 

For the Crows’ full 2023 fixture, click here.

Adelaide 2023 AFLW Memberships available here.