The Crows are hitting the road and travelling to visit regional South Australian communities thanks to a partnership with leading agriculture network, Viterra.

Now in its second year, the partnership will see past players including Tony Modra and Scott Welsh, along with current AFLW stars Eloise Joines, Chelsea Biddell and Brooke Tonon supporting country footy clubs on game days, running junior clinics and handing out Country Crow memberships.

Mundulla in the state’s south east – where current Adelaide defender Mitch Hinge grew up – will host the first visit on May 31 and June 1, followed by trips to Booleroo Melrose Wilmington (June 21-22) in the mid-north, and Wirrulla on the Eyre Peninsula (August 23-24).

Crows CEO Tim Silvers said the Club was thrilled to partner with Viterra for another season to help boost local footy across the state.

“The Country Connect initiative is a fantastic way to inspire the next generation and last year our partnership with Viterra saw hundreds of regionally-based children, and their communities, benefit from three key events,” Silvers said.

“Continuing to build on our connection with country footy is important and this partnership gives us the opportunity to visit more rural and regional areas that are so passionate about the game.”

Viterra plays a significant role in regional South Australia as an employer and service provider, connecting SA growers and the high quality grain, oilseeds and pulses they grow for both Australia and abroad.

Viterra CEO ANZ Phillip Hughes said it was important to support country football which plays such a significant role in the areas where Viterra’s customers and employees live and work.

“Sports are crucial in helping keep our communities active and connected, whether you’re playing or watching from the sidelines, it can significantly boost mental health and wellbeing,” he said.

“We are proud to once again partner with the Adelaide Crows to deliver the Country connect programme and give back to the regional communities that are the backbone of South Australian football and agriculture.”