Experienced Crow Andy Otten is retiring from the AFL after more than a decade at the elite level.

A popular and respected member of Adelaide’s playing group, Otten has played 109 AFL games in a career highlighted by his versatility and team-first approach.

“This jumper means the world to me as it resembles blood, sweat and tears, countless laughs, some amazing games, plus experiences and stories that will last a lifetime,” he said.

“Even though I have kind of known this year would be my last, saying and hearing the word retirement and admitting to yourself that the time has come is still tough to do.

“It has been one hell of a ride and I say that with a smile on my face, satisfied that I’ve given all I can to play in the AFL for 12 years.”

Otto shares his proudest moment with the boys Watch more: https://t.co/h8DiJwutx2 #weflyasone pic.twitter.com/uWBJp8mjIR — Adelaide Crows (@Adelaide_FC) August 20, 2019

Otten was selected with pick No.27 in the 2007 AFL Draft and played two games in his debut season before a breakout year in 2009. He played 24 games that year to finish runner-up in the AFL Rising Star award.

His AFL journey has not been without its challenges, having undergone two knee reconstructions.

“My career has been more like a rollercoaster, with the ups and downs to match,” Otten said.

“I wouldn’t change any of it, because it’s made me the person I am today.”

Crows Head of Football Brett Burton paid tribute to Otten’s resilience, passion and care for his team mates.

“Andy is the type of person that every footy club wants and needs,” Burton said.

“He has been able to perform strongly at both ends of the ground and his work ethic sets a great example for younger players to follow.

“He will always be part of the Crows family and we wish him and his wife Emmalyn, and their daughter Mayla, all the best for the future.”

Playing much of 2019 in the State League has allowed the 30-year-old Otten to invest greater time in mentoring younger team mates and reinforced his desire to pursue a career in coaching.

“This year has been actually one of my most enjoyable years of footy, especially working with the coaches and caring and focussing on how the younger guys are developing,” Otten said.

“I’m not limping to the finish line, I’m sprinting to the finish line, as it’s the only way I know how.

“This journey has only been possible because of the support of my family back home and of course Emmalyn, who has been there since day one, and I can’t wait to spend more time with our beautiful daughter Mayla.”

Otten remains committed to playing out the remainder of the year, whether that be in an AFL final series should the Club qualify or in the SANFL.