Crows announce Six new Life Members

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.

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 130th 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.

The other Club stalwarts to receive Life Membership at the Season Launch were physio Kevin Whitford, who was also recognised for 20 years of service, CEO Steven Trigg (15 years at the Crows, the last ten as CEO), 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 number of years’ service to the Club.

Chief executive Steven 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.

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