The Adelaide Football Club has strengthened its commitment to Indigenous people within the Club and in the broader community with the appointment of Jeremy Johncock as the Crows’ first Indigenous Liaison Officer.

A cousin of former Crow Graham Johncock, Jeremy is a Wirangu and Kokatha man originally from the Far-West Coast of South Australia.

He has 15 years’ experience working extensively in Aboriginal engagement through several roles within SA Government including the Courts Administration Authority, the Office for Recreation and Sport, the Department Planning Transport and Infrastructure and most recently the Treaty Commissioners Office.

The newly created role will enable the successful implementation and progress of the Club’s Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) which was launched in February.

It will see Johncock work closely with Adelaide’s community department to support Club-wide Indigenous initiatives and programs. There will be a strong focus on communication and liaison with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander players, employees and various internal and external stakeholders.

Formerly a forward with Sturt in the SANFL, Johncock grew up playing football with Graham and still plays in the Adelaide Football League (formally SAAFL) for the Henley Sharks FC.

Johncock said he was looking forward to commencing in the role.

“I’ve played football for many years now and I’ve always had an interest in football administration so I’m thrilled to be involved with the Crows while continuing to work in Aboriginal affairs,” Johncock said.

“The great thing about sport is that it brings people together. With football, everyone is equal on the field, and it is a fantastic platform to promote a deeper respect and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures."

“The Crows are committed to this. The Club has put together a great Reconciliation Action Plan and I’m looking forward to driving that to promote reconciliation."

“I’m excited about helping to continue to educate staff, players and the broader community through the platform of football”

Adelaide has been celebrating the game’s Indigenous players and culture this week as part of Sir Doug Nicholls Round.

Read more about the Club’s existing Indigenous programs here.