Recently retired Crow Nathan van Berlo will take on a new role at Adelaide in 2017 after agreeing to become a development coach.

A well respected player and admired leader, van Berlo will be a welcome addition to the Club’s coaching staff.

The former captain will work closely with Adelaide’s younger players and the State League side, as well as playing a key role in the Club’s Leadership Program.

van Berlo said he was excited about taking on a new challenge in the football industry.

“I have had an incredible journey with the Adelaide Football Club and I am thrilled to be embarking on a new career at West Lakes,” van Berlo said.

“Coaching is a fresh challenge and I’m excited for the opportunity to continue to learn and develop in an elite environment.

“I have great respect for the group of coaches at the Club led by Don Pyke and can’t wait to start working with them.

“We have a really exciting group of young players at the Crows and I look forward to being able to help them get the best out of themselves.”

In a 12-year playing career, van Berlo developed a standing as the ultimate club person.

He retired earlier this year after 205 games – ranked 13th at the Adelaide Football Club.

Originally recruited from West Perth, van Berlo’s leadership skills were recognised from an early age when he was voted into Adelaide’s Senior Leadership Group in 2008, in just his third season.

He was appointed the sixth captain of the Crows following the retirement of Simon Goodwin at the end of the 2010 season and led the Club in 68 games.