A Crows member since the historic first season in 1991, Cullen Bailey and his family have rolled with the good and bad times of the Adelaide Football Club and were even lucky enough to be in the stands as the Crows won their first premiership in 1997.
“It was such a special moment,” Bailey said. “I supported the Crows through all my younger years so it was great just to make the grand final. And to be over there (Grand Final day, MCG, 1997) when we won our first premiership, it was unforgettable”.
Like any sports mad child, posters of Cullen Bailey’s sporting heroes adorned his walls. The likes of John Klug, Ben Hart and Matthew Robran shared a special place along with legendary leg-spinner Shane Warne.
Growing up, Bailey balanced both football and cricket over the course of a year. And becoming a successful cricketer wasn’t his only dream.
“I always wanted to play for the Adelaide Football Club when growing up,” he said. “In winter I dreamed of playing for the Crows, but when summer came along the dream changed to representing Australia at cricket!”
As with every other season, Cullen Bailey is again observing the progress of the Crows. Bailey believes that 2006 will see the Adelaide Football Club reach a new level.
“It is a year of expectation. I think last year we had a new coach and younger unproven players, but the way performed was a surprise to most. The way the boys have performed this year over the summer and leading in to the premiership season I believe that we are genuine premiership contenders under Neil Craig. Craigy is the king!”
Bailey believes that the performance of Adelaide’s second tier players will bring success in 2006.
“The second tier players performed so well last year. If they continue to improve and provide the backbone for the side, I think success will be a near certainty this season. I believe the players to watch in 2006 will be Chris Knights, Nathan van Berlo and Ian Perrie. ‘Sarge’ has especially come along in leaps and bounds and I can see him becoming one of the best forwards in the competition.”
A passionate follower of all sports, Bailey has particularly recognised the Adelaide Football Club standing out from many other sporting teams.
“There seems to be a real professionalism throughout the club under Neil Craig. The club has a willingness to raise the bar, set the benchmark in all areas and face all challenges in its path.”
