Ben Rutten and Brent Reilly were among six recipients of Life Membership at the Adelaide Football Club’s 2012 Season Launch at the Westpac Centre on Tuesday night. 

At West Lakes, players are eligible for Life Membership after they reach 100 games and 10 years of service to the Club, and when appropriately endorsed by the Board.

Recruited from West Adelaide with pick No.40 in the 2002 Rookie Draft and elevated the same year, Rutten made his debut against Fremantle at Subiaco in July 2003.

Ironically, Rutten kicked three goals with his first three kicks playing as a forward before switching to defence and establishing himself as one of the most reliable full-backs in the competition.

He earned All-Australians selection in 2005 and finished equal-third in the Crows Club Champion award in both 2005 and 2011.

He’s played 169 games at Adelaide and is a current member of the Club’s senior leadership group.

Rutten described his Life Membership as a ‘fantastic honour’ and used his acceptance speech to encourage the current playing group to make the most of its opportunities.

“It seems a long time ago that I was on the rookie list here. To spend 10 years here and play 169 games at one club is fantastic,” Rutten said.

“Everyone in this room would’ve seen some of the talent and enthusiasm we’ve got at the moment.

“All I can say to them now, being one of the more experienced players, is that we can’t afford to waste time or opportunities.

“It’s not often we can say we have every player on the list to select from, or that 90 per cent of our players have had great pre-seasons.

“I’ve been involved in some good sides earlier in my career and, unfortunately, we didn’t maximise our opportunities.

“I’m sure I speak on behalf of all the older boys here when I say we’ve never been more desperate to win a premiership.

“This year, we’ll need everyone’s enthusiasm, hunger and talent because our goal is always to win a premiership.”

Reilly reached the 150-game milestone last season after being selected by the Crows with pick No.12 in the 2001 AFL Draft.

Reilly became the 130^th player to represent the Club when he made his AFL debut against St Kilda at AAMI Stadium in July 2002.

A versatile and skilful player, Reilly has kicked 48 goals in 156 appearances for the Crows.

“It’s a great honour and something I’ll cherish for the rest of my life,” Reilly said.

“It’s been a journey.

“When I first came over from Melbourne I was raw.

“I had no idea about life or football, but I’ve come a long way.

“I’ve grown up here and I’d like to call myself a South Australian.

“Three blokes who have really helped me out and made me into the person I am today are Simon Goodwin, Mark Ricciuto and Michael Doughty.

“They’ve been sensational for me, both in football and in life and I thank them very much.”

The other Club stalwarts to receive Life Membership at the Season Launch were chief executive Steven Trigg, physio Kevin Whitford, who was also recognised for 20 years of service, trainer Steve McAvaney and President of the Crows Supporter Group, Darryl Carter.

Eligibility for non-playing Life Members is based on an ‘extraordinary contribution’ at the discretion of the Board rather than a certain number of years of service to the Club.

Unaware he was to receive Life Membership as well as a 15-year service award Trigg said it was a humbling moment.

“I’ve had the privilege over the last 10 years to assess a lot of Life Membership nominations ... I can honestly say at no time have I ever stopped and gone, maybe for me,” Trigg said.

“It’s really appreciated.”

Trigg also presented service awards to staff members with 10, 15 and 20 years of service.

Kevin Whitford and Match Day Support staffer Serge Degioia were recognised for 20 years of service.

Dr Steve Kennett (medical officer), Dr Andrew Potter (Club doctor) and Dr Mark Earl (dentist) all received 15-year service awards, while trainer Shain Altschwager received a 10-year award.  

Several Melbourne and Perth-based support staff have also reached 15 and 20-year milestones, and their awards will be presented at one of the Club’s interstate match days.