ONE of the Sydney Swans longest-serving players, Jared Crouch, is being brought back into the fold in a coaching role, involved in player development and the new QBE Sydney Swans Academy.
Crouch, 32, retired at the end of season 2009, having played 223 games since his debut in 1998.
Senior coach John Longmire said Crouch was a very welcome addition to the Swans coaching staff.
“Jared has been a fantastic Swans person for many years. He’s very passionate about the Club and is really keen to help our next generation of young players, including those on our list and in our Academy,’’ Longmire said.
Crouch will assist recently-appointed Development Coach Henry Playfair in his role overseeing the Swans Reserves team, and they will both work with Development Manager, Stuart Maxfield.
Crouch will combine the Reserves role with coaching duties at the Swans junior Academy, headed by Paul Roos.
Longmire said Crouch had always got the best out of himself, so was a great person to help youngsters do the same.
“Jared is a great example to young players. He was always completely professional and disciplined as a player, and made the most of every opportunity he was given.
“It will be very beneficial for our Reserves to be coached by Henry and Jared, who have both only recently left the playing field, and they will work with our former captain, Stuey Maxfield, so it’s a good mix,’’ Longmire said.
Crouch said he was excited to be coming back to the Swans.
“I’m looking forward to sharing my knowledge and experience with the up-and-coming players and helping them make the most of their careers,’’ Crouch said.
“I’m also excited about working with the Academy to develop young kids in our zone and hopefully turning a few into future Swans superstars.’’
Crouch had a distinguished career at the Swans. He played in the 2005 Premiership and won the Club award for Best Player in the Finals Series in that year.
He was drafted in 1995, and made his debut in round 7 of 1998. He then played an extraordinary 194 consecutive games from debut, setting an AFL record that was a tribute to his toughness and professionalism.
Those same traits, along with his consistent effort, saw him place in the top 10 of the Swans' best and fairest count six years in a row. He was also selected in the International Rules team that played against Ireland in 2003 and 2004.
