Taylor Walker gives up on-field leadership of the Crows he has held for five seasons
After a tough past two seasons, Adelaide forward Taylor Walker has decided to give up his co-captaincy of the Crows to concentrate on his playing future.
Taylor Walker has sensationally stepped down as Adelaide captain.
The 29-year-old, who was sole captain from 2015-18 before sharing the duties with Rory Sloane this year, has told the club he wants to focus on his own game and spend more time with his family.
“It has been a great privilege to lead this club for the last five years, through some great times and some very sad and challenging times,” Walker said on the club’s website.
“It has made me realise what’s really important in my life — family, mateship and making the most of the time we have in the game we all love.
“The role has helped me grow, mature, learn and seek to understand others’ views but most of all I’ve enjoyed the challenge of leading this football club.”
Coach Don Pyke said he respected Walker’s reasons for stepping down.
“From the day I arrived, Taylor has been a great leader who has helped and inspired his team mates, coaches and staff,” Pyke said.
Stream every match of the 2019 Toyota AFL Finals Series before the Grand Final live and on-demand on KAYO SPORTS. Get your 14-day free trial and start streaming instantly >
“He has also been a tremendous support to me as senior coach and not only shown genuine care for all of those inside the club, but also the wider community with some of his charity work.
“He will continue to offer advice and play a key role in developing our next generation of leaders, and I look forward to seeing what more he can achieve on-field.”