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Crow Douglas follows Otten into retirement

Veteran Crow Richard Douglas has announced his retirement ahead of his 246th game when Adelaide clashes with the Western Bulldogs on Sunday.

Aug 22, 2019, updated Aug 22, 2019
Crows veteran Richard Douglas will retire at season's end. Photo: Michael Errey / InDaily

Crows veteran Richard Douglas will retire at season's end. Photo: Michael Errey / InDaily

Today’s news came two days after Andy Otten announced he was hanging up his boots at the end of the season.

Douglas, 32, has been with Adelaide for 14 years, after arriving from Victoria as pick No.16 in the 2005 National Draft.

He is one of only 16 Crows to reach 200 games, and ranks ninth on the club’s all-time games played list.

Douglas was Adelaide’s Club Champion in 2010 and runner-up in 2013, when he was also named in the extended All Australian squad.

Other achievements include multiple best team man awards and life membership, and playing in the 2011 International Rules Series.

“From a football perspective, there has been so many great times but it is the people and the lifelong friendships that are the real highlights,” Douglas said today.

“I arrived at the club as a teenager and the many people past and present who make it such a special place have played a significant role in shaping the person I am today.

“I’ll miss the day-to-day things that come with being part of a professional footy environment but I am also excited about the next phase of my life.”

Adelaide’s Head of Football Brett Burton said Douglas would be remembered as one of the club’s most reliable performers.

“Richard is a class act both on and off the field and his achievements and longevity in the game are a testament to his talent, work ethic and willingness to put the team’s interests first,” he said.

“He has always shown genuine care for his team mates, coaches and staff and it is one of the many reasons why he is such a respected and popular figure in our club.”

Burton also this week paid tribute to Otten, retiring after 12 years and 109 games with Adelaide.

The 30-year-old was pick No.27 in the 2007 AFL Draft, and in 2009 was runner-up in the AFL Rising Star award.

But his playing career was hit by injury, and he underwent two knee reconstructions.

“My career has been more like a rollercoaster, with the ups and downs to match,” Otten said.

“I wouldn’t change any of it, because it’s made me the person I am today.”

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