Talented midfielder Tariek Newchurch has been awarded the 2020 Crows Children’s Foundation Academies Scholarship.

The scholarship aims to remove barriers for a member of the Crows Academies program who is navigating their way through the talent pathways on pursuit of reaching the highest level.

Hailing from Port Augusta, Tariek made his senior football debut for West Augusta as a 15-year-old and is currently a member of the Crows Academies AFL Acceleration Squad, which aims to fast track talented 17 and 18-year-olds.

He has been a member of the Crows Academies since 2017 and is currently in the SA U18 Hub Squad and the SANFL Future Squad, which works with the most talented 17-year-olds in the state.

Tariek recently moved to Adelaide with his family to pursue his football dream and said this scholarship will help with the transition.

“I’m studying year 12 next year at Henley High School, so the scholarship will really help with that,” Tariek said.

“I’m really looking forward to meeting new people and learning new skills from my coaches.

“Thank you to the Foundation and the Club for this opportunity.”

Crows Children’s Foundation Manager, Louise McDonald said Tariek is a worthy 2020 recipient of the award.

“The scholarship recognises the dedication and resilience Tariek has already shown to reach his full potential,” McDonald said.

“He is obviously a talented footballer, but just as importantly, a great person.

“We are delighted to assist Tariek develop his footballer knowledge through our Crows Academies programs while also supporting his education.”