A new-look leadership group will guide Adelaide in the upcoming AFL season with Rory Sloane leading the way as sole captain.

Sloane will be supported by All Australian Brodie Smith and emerging defender Tom Doedee, who have been elevated to official leadership positions for the first time. The five-man group will also include Matt Crouch and Tom Lynch. 

Every Crows player was consulted and asked to take into account the squad’s values and behaviours before Senior Coach Matthew Nicks settled on the group, which was endorsed by key management and the Club’s Board of Directors. 

While no longer officially in leadership positions, former captain Taylor Walker and key defender Daniel Talia will provide ongoing guidance as Adelaide continues to rejuvenate its playing list. 

Nicks said the Club was entering a new era and fresh faces in the leadership group would only add to the excitement and optimism.

“Rory typifies the qualities and attributes that every club wants in its leaders and he was a standout choice as captain, and I am confident we have the right mix of players assisting him,” Nicks said. 

“They have a positive influence on others and genuinely care for their teammates, as well as coaches and staff across the organisation, and set elite standards in the way they prepare and carry themselves both on and off the field.

“As a new addition to the group, Brodie has a strong rapport with both younger and older teammates while being a consistent on-field performer.

“Likewise, Tom is well rounded and highly-rated by everyone in the football department, along with those in the administration, and commands respect for his resilience and manner in which he has approached his injury layoff. 

“After speaking to every player on the list, it was clear that we have some outstanding leaders in our squad and we are well placed heading into this season and beyond.

“In regards to Taylor and Daniel, the feedback from their peers suggested they both could have been included in the leadership group but we have decided it is time to transition and provide leadership opportunities to others.

“They were supportive of the decision and are highly respected members of the playing group, and will continue to provide guidance and advice across the football program.”

Adelaide opens the 2020 Toyota AFL Premiership season with a home game against Sydney on Saturday, March 21.