Crows SANFL captain Ian Callinan expects mixed emotions when he lines up against former side Central District on Saturday.

Callinan enjoyed a stellar four-year stint with the Bulldogs between 2007 and 2010 before joining Adelaide as a rookie for the 2011 season. Callinan won four premierships, two best and fairests, two leading goalkicker awards and a Jack Oatey Medal with Centrals and remains one of the club’s most decorated players.

The 31-year-old said it would be a weird experience walking into the visitors’ rooms at Elizabeth Oval for the first time this weekend.

“Yeah it’s going to be really strange, I probably think about it every day really,” Callinan told afc.com.au.

“I’ve got a lot of history there and it’s a club that I’ll always love and hold close to my heart probably for the rest of my life.

“But it’s the next phase in my footy career now. Hopefully, all the Doggies supporters realise that.

“I might get the odd one that might give me a bit of a heckle, it’s going to be strange but I’m really looking forward to it.”

The SANFL Crows will need to be at their best when they battle the Bulldogs on Saturday, after Central downed reigning premiers Norwood in convincing fashion by 42 points in Round Two.

In contrast, Adelaide is yet to taste victory in the local competition with losses to North Adelaide and Sturt in the opening two rounds. However, the squad showed promising signs in its Round Two clash with the Double Blues, with young Crows Cam Ellis-Yolmen (28 disposals), Jarryd Lyons (28 disposals, 11 clearances) and rookie Jake Kelly (22 disposals, seven marks) all impressive.

Callinan said the SANFL Crows would only improve as the season wears on.

“It’s a really young side and it’s something that the Club can really look forward to,” Callinan said.

 “As skipper, it’s just about playing a role for the team and leading and nurturing those younger guys through.

“They’re only going to get better and better.”

Adelaide’s SANFL side meets Central District at Elizabeth Oval from 2.10pm this Saturday. The game will also be broadcast live on radio station 5RPH.

Crows ticketed members receive free access to all Adelaide SANFL matches in season 2014. Click here to browse our membership packages and join the 19^th Man today.