We’re still in the fight for a finals spot in what is a wide open race heading towards September. It’s going to be an exciting few weeks and we need to be at our best.
Last week’s loss to the Giants hurt and after being in front at three-quarter time, we let an opportunity slip. It’s fair to say a few of our younger players are also looking a bit fatigued. Given the mental and physical demands of the season, it’s to be expected and we are managing them accordingly. We need to find a spark and hopefully we get that from the change-up at selection.
The SANFL team is travelling along nicely and sits comfortably in third spot. The win over league leaders Glenelg – the Tigers first loss in three months – has given us even greater optimism of what we can achieve come finals time.
Our AFLW team’s pre-season training is in full swing and speaking to Matt Clarke and Phil Harper the other day, they say the squad has never been fitter. They’re pushing the players hard and we’re in a good spot.
It’s great to have a player and person of the calibre of Chelsea Randall captaining the team once again. She becomes the competition’s longest serving skipper at the one club, and we’ll also benefit from having the stability of an unchanged leadership group.
I’m never one to look ahead of the upcoming game although it’s difficult given the number of people asking how they can grab a ticket to the Showdown on Saturday week. Adelaide Oval is going to be packed and if you know of anyone wanting to get along, their last and only chance is to buy a Showdown membership.
Off-field, a key pillar in our 5-year strategy focuses on community work and we have struck a significant partnership with Guy Sebastian’s foundation, which will help us deliver on our ambition. The Open Parachute program teaches practical mental health skills and our involvement includes players attending classrooms across the State to share their stories and experiences in overcoming challenges and building resilience. Together with The Sebastian Foundation, we’ll have a positive influence on 16,000 school students this year.
There was a meeting of club CEOs in Melbourne during the week. Potential changes to the fixture, such as a finals wildcard round which grabbed plenty of headlines, were discussed. It’s important to say no decisions were made and a lot more consideration is required.
Of more pressing concern is Sunday’s game versus Melbourne, along with the SANFL team going up against Woodville-West Torrens. Let’s hope it’s a winning weekend! Thanks for your support. Go Crows.
Regards, Tim
