Former Adelaide Crows captain Nathan van Berlo has announced his retirement.
The Crows say his retirement is effective immediately, but he will continue to play for Adelaide’s state team during the SANFL finals.
VB said he’d had an incredible journey …
“It has been an incredible journey and when I think back to my draft day, I never imagined playing 200-plus games and being part of such a strong club for so long,” VB told afc.com.au.
“Team success has been my driving force since day one and I am proud to have been part of playing groups where others share that view.
“Playing and winning finals are standout moments and I look forward to seeing everyone at the Club make the most of the opportunities in front of them now and in the future.
“I want to extend a sincere thank you to the Adelaide Football Club for the opportunity to fulfill my dream of playing in the AFL,” van Berlo said.
“To all of my teammates, coaches and support staff over the years, thank you for so many great memories. I would also like to thank our fans who have always been a pillar of support throughout my career.
“On a personal level I would like to thank my wife, Jess and my family, as well as my manager Colin Young, as without their support my journey would not have been possible.”
Coach Don Pyke was an assistant when VB first arrived at West Lakes …
“Nathan made an immediate impact at the Crows with a standout effort in his very first running session the day after being drafted,” Pyke said.
“From that day he has been a fantastic leader on and off field with his continual drive to improve and attain success.
“He has played some wonderful football and to play over 200 AFL games at a very high standard is a great achievement. He is also a selfless person of great integrity and character and his leadership over the years leaves a wonderful legacy.
“It has been a real privilege to have coached Nathan and it is people like him which help build football clubs.
“I would like to wish Nathan and his wife Jess the very best for the upcoming birth of their first child and the next phase of their life.”
Van Berlo, 30, retires after 205 games — and is ranked 13th all-time at AFC.
