When Crows SANFL recruit Ned Atkinson ran onto Richmond Oval to make his League debut, he was not only representing the Club, but also the football legacy of his father Brodie.
On his back was the No.2, the same number his dad wore in his five AFL games for the Crows in 1999.
The Atkinson name is a famous one in South Australia football, as Brodie played 220 SANFL games for Sturt and North Adelaide, and won the Magarey Medal in 1997.
Speaking to AFC Media, Atkinson explained what it meant to continue the family legacy and the words of advice he received from his father before his debut.
“The whole day was surreal, especially to be wearing No.2, which Dad wore too, it is pretty special to think about,” Atkinson said.
“When I was asked if I wanted to wear it, without hesitation I said yes, I really wanted to carry on that legacy”, Atkinson said.
“My family were ecstatic for me and obviously it was a lifelong dream to pull on the colours of the team I grew up supporting.
“Dad definitely gave me a few words of wisdom before my debut - just go out there and do your thing, you’ve had a great pre-season, you’re in a good spot and the rest will take care of itself.”
Atkinson adapted well to the level of SANFL football, as he collected 15 disposals and took five marks in the Crows’ 95-point win over West Adelaide.
His performance also earned a nomination as one of the SANFL’s AAMI rookies for Round One.
He said the influence of experienced teammates helped feel comfortable to play his own game.
“I’d definitely say the pace of the game is much different, the skill is much higher, especially playing with such elite footballers on the AFL list at the Crows makes it very different,” Atkinson said.
“The communication from leaders like Brodie Smith in the back line was incredible to direct me, and obviously being new to the club I haven’t got the complete system yet so being able to rely on my teammates really helped.
“It really reassured me with the decisions I was making in the game and me feel a lot more comfortable out there.
“I think it's a credit to all of them and how they go about it, their influence just made it a lot easier for me to play my game.
The highlight of Atkinson’s debut came late in the third quarter, when he took a mark 35 metres of goal, went back and converted his first major in SANFL footy.
“Yeah, I was going into the game hoping to possibly snag one and get a bit of a celebration happening,” Atkinson said.
“Being able to get that opportunity and make the most of it with the finish in front of goal, it was a proud moment and one I was very happy with.
“To have all the boys get around me afterwards, it really capped off what was a special day.”
Adelaide’s SANFL team faces North Adelaide this Saturday afternoon at Prospect Oval, with the first bounce at 2.40pm (ACDT).
