Former Adelaide utility Michael Doughty almost bagged three flags straight after he left the Crows.

The 231-gamer spent 13 years at the Club before calling time at the end of 2012, and subsequently joining boyhood side Reynella.

“I managed to play in three Grand Finals, and won two of them,” Doughty told AFC Media.

“To win two flags at your home Club was great, to see the smiles on everyone’s face was so enjoyable.

“It could have been three in a row, but we lost the one in between after the siren.

“It was actually Stiffy (Graham) Johncock’s cousin… I still remember it, left foot, 35 metres out at Noarlunga on the boundary.”

Doughty played all but one match in his final season at the Crows, only missing it to witness the birth of his first son, Max.

But his decision to call it quits came much earlier in the year.

“I got through that pre-season and just knew my 13th year would be my last,” he said.

“They say you know when it’s time to give it up and once I made that decision I felt I played better footy with that weight off my shoulders.

“It was a combination of age, slowing up and just mentally I knew it was time.”

Eight years on, Doughty has forged a successful career as a player manager. 

In his final year at the Club, the then 32-year-old undertook a work experience role with player management firm ESP (now TLA).

“I wanted a role where I felt I could have an impact helping young players,” Doughty said.

“My last couple of years at the Club I stepped away from the leadership group and worked with the younger guys.

“I felt really passionate about helping them and felt like it was a job suited to me.

“I love what I do.”

 Happily married with three boys, one born just three months ago, Doughty said he never considered moving abroad or interstate.

“I’ve always been happy in SA and have strong family ties here,” the now 40-year-old said.

“My oldest son loves his footy, but unfortunately he goes for Geelong because of Dangerfield… it’s a bit of a double dagger.

“The middle one is just starting out, I’ve got him convinced (for the Crows).”

Comfortable in his personal and professional life, Doughty was happy to have moved on from professional football.

“When you get to 32-33 and your body starts to feel the pinch… I certainly don’t miss the training and the knocks,” he said.

“I do miss the camaraderie and spending time with your teammates, all the travelling you get to do.

“I’m content I got the most out of myself and I wouldn’t take it (the decision to retire) back.”