IF BRENTON Sanderson should miss a training session this season, there's a group of Crows fans on constant stand-by to provide tactical advice - and apricot slices.

Twice a week during the AFL season, devoted fans Jill Turbott, Cath Day, Pat King, June Ryan and Marlene Cooper gather at AAMI Stadium to watch their team train.

It gives the retirees, most of whom live in Adelaide's western suburbs, a chance to see the players up close and also enjoy a chinwag over a coffee.

"The boys will often talk to us when they can, it's great to get a friendly hello," Mrs Turbott, 75, said.

A love of the Crows isn't the only thing they have in common - many also bake sweet treats to take to the football and enjoy as the on-field action unfolds.

Mrs Ryan says she often takes a homemade apricot slice to AAMI Stadium. "I've been making it for about 40 years, it's a family recipe and very easy to make," Mrs Ryan said.

It's a recipe she has shared with The Advertiser ahead of the Crows' round one clash against Essendon on Friday night at AAMI Stadium.

Some members of the group, such as West Lakes resident Cath Day, have been to almost every training session since the Crows joined the AFL in 1991. "I'm really looking forward to the first game on Friday, the first one is always very exciting," the 77-year-old said.

"I'd love for us to get into the top four this year."

Going to the football is a family affair for most and Mrs Ryan's husband Garry and Mrs Cooper's husband Kevin are also regulars at West Lakes.

Mrs Turbott, of Fulham Gardens, has been a dedicated Crows fan since moving to Adelaide from New Zealand in 1991.

"I found going to Crows games was a really good way to meet people," she said. "We all met through the football and have been friends ever since.

"I came over to Australia as a big rugby fan, but I've definitely switched codes, I don't care about rugby at all now."