Richard Douglas is set to be a one-club player after signing a new three-year deal with Adelaide.
The second Crow to put pen to paper in as many days, Douglas ignored the lure of Free Agency and joins another talented Victorian Rory Sloane in committing until at least the end of 2018.
“I have always admired players who have stayed true to one club and this all but guarantees I am a Crow for life,” Douglas said.
“Everyone at our Club likes the direction in which we are heading and this playing group is yet to realise its full potential.
“We are desperately chasing team success and I want to do all I can to help.”
Douglas, 28 was originally recruited from the Calder Cannons with pick No.16 in the 2005 AFL National Draft. The strong-bodied midfielder made his debut against Port Adelaide in Round 21, 2006, and has played a total of 160 AFL games – ranked 16th all-time at Adelaide.
He was crowned Crows Club Champion in 2010 and came close to claiming Adelaide’s highest individual honour again in 2013, finishing three votes behind Sloane. Douglas received the 2013 Best Team Man award and was included in the All-Australian squad of 40. He represented his country in the International Rules series in 2011 and won the Crows Coaches’ award in 2008.
The long-kicking onballer has booted 108 career goals and leads the Club in goal assists since 2010.
Renowned for his ‘two-way’ running, Douglas ranks second at the Crows in handball receives, uncontested possessions and inside 50ms in the last six years (2010-15). He is also third for clearances and fourth for total disposals and tackles in the same period.
Douglas also has an influence away from the field and has previously been a member of the leadership group. Head of Football David Noble described Douglas as a loyal and committed person.
"Richard has a very high standing internally amongst the players, coaches and staff and is at the core of what successful environments are built upon,” Noble said.
“We look forward to him continuing to contribute his consistency and team first approach for the next few years.”
Douglas has been limited to five AFL games this season because of a foot injury, but made a successful return in the SANFL prior to the bye and will come under strong consideration for Adelaide’s Thursday night clash with Hawthorn.
Senior Coach Phil Walsh said Douglas upholds a level of professionalism to which younger players could aspire.
“Injury has cost him a few matches this year but no one could question his attention to detail and work ethic during the recovery phase,” Walsh said.
“Richard is a really important player for us and his experience will be invaluable in the second half of the season and beyond.”