EXPERIENCED Adelaide recruit Sam Gibson has made a strong impression at his new club, with the former North Melbourne midfielder winning the 2km time trial on Monday morning.
Gibson, the oldest player on the Crows list, took out the time trial ahead of defender Jake Kelly and dual club champion Rory Sloane at the SA Athletics Stadium.
Gibson, 31, started training with the Crows last Monday after playing 130 consecutive games with the Kangaroos.
"He's an impressive runner, he left a few of us behind," midfielder Richard Douglas said.
"He's a quality athlete and he's going to add plenty to our group.
"He brings a wealth of experience and he's a fantastic guy, so we're excited to have him on board."
The Crows strengthened their midfield during the off-season with the addition of Gibson and Carlton star Bryce Gibbs.
"We've got a pretty strong midfield already at the moment and both those guys play through there, so they will add plenty, and it's only going to help our depth and training standards and those things that go with it," Douglas said.
"They'll both be great assets for our footy club and help us become a better team."
The entire Crows squad, including the senior players, trained together for the first time following their Grand Final loss to Richmond.
Skipper Taylor Walker, forwards Tom Lynch and Mitch McGovern and defender Luke Brown were among those on modified programs.
Crows forward Mitch McGovern jogging around the track @AFLcomau pic.twitter.com/KRRT5OUw9R
— Lee Gaskin (@Lee_Gaskin1) December 3, 2017
Walker took part in some sprints and agility-based running drills as he recovers from minor surgery on his finger and ankle.
He is expected to resume full training after Christmas.
"Tex is our leader and he's probably the most vocal out on the track, even though he's running laps," Douglas said.
"He doesn't want to miss out too much and he'll be back post-Christmas.
"He's just doing what he needs to do with his (ankle) and he'll be right come January."
McGovern was running laps as he builds his endurance back up after a hamstring injury forced him to miss the Grand Final.
Lynch was also running laps, while Brown was with the rehab group, but also did some kicking drills.
Draftee Andrew McPherson, who had quad issues this year, second-year midfielder Matt Signorello and rookie-listed ruckman Paul Hunter were others on modified programs.
Midfielder Hugh Greenwood, who had foot surgery last month, and defender Brodie Smith, who is recovering from a knee reconstruction, were the only two players not involved.
