Adelaide SANFL recruit Blake Drury says he is looking forward to linking up with two familiar
faces, as he embarks on the next stage of his football journey.
The 20-year-old was unveiled as the Crows’ marquee SANFL recruit on Thursday, signing as part of the League’s new list regulations.
Speaking to AFC Media, Drury revealed he had a connection with two Crows AFL-listed players, which was set to help the transition.
“I played school footy with Josh Rachele which was really great, and I can’t wait to link back up with him over here,” Drury said.
“I’ve also had a bit to do with Lachie Murphy, our dad’s know each other, and I can remember him chatting to me right before I got drafted and giving me some great advice.
“So we’ve still stayed in touch, and it will be great to be able to train alongside him now.”
The former Vic Country under-18 Captain arrives at West Lakes having spent two seasons on North Melbourne’s list.
He was selected at Pick No.1 at the 2022 Rookie Draft and registered 10 AFL games, before being delisted at the end of 2024.
Despite knowing Rachele and Murphy, Drury’s desire for a fresh start was the main catalyst behind making the move to the Crows’ nest.
“The opportunity to develop further in an AFL program was really important for me, and I really wanted to explore another side of footy too in playing in the SANFL,” Drury said.
“I’ve heard the SANFL is a great league, from what I’ve seen the standard is incredibly high and it means a lot to a lot of people here in Adelaide.
“I can’t wait to test myself at the level, throw myself into something new and get to work to become better both on and off the field.”
As a Victorian local, Drury has never lived out of home but says he is looking forward to the challenge of navigating life in a different state.
“It will be great for me to grow up a bit, move out of home and from what I’ve experienced of Adelaide already I think I’ll fit in well here with all the nice beaches and golf courses,” Drury said.
“The timing just felt right for me, I feel like making this move is me being all chips in to get the best out of my footy, and that is really motivating for me.
“Now it’s time to put in the work, and I cannot wait to get started.”
Looking to the summer ahead, Drury said his sole focus was to get better every single day.
“I don’t have too many concrete goals (moving into the pre-season), I’m one that doesn’t really like to put a ceiling on things,” Drury said.
“I’m just keen to go about my business and train as hard as I can, I haven’t had a full pre-season yet, so I really just want to get through the summer and get better every day.
“I’m really hungry to learn, develop my craft and be the best I possibly can be.”
