New Saints recruit Brad Crouch is suspended for the first two games of the 2021 season after being caught with an illicit substance in the off-season, and while the entire situation was tough to deal with for the former Crow, he is now looking to make amends.
Crouch stood before his new teammates upon returning to training in January to clear the issue and earn the trust of the playing group heading into a new season with a new club.
Saints coach Brett Ratten told AFL.com.au that Crouch opened up to his new peers to clear the air.
"He had a chat to the group fairly early when he got back after Christmas," Ratten said.
"It builds a connection straight away. Brad's accountable to that as well which is pretty important. And it shows respect for the football club straight away.
Brad Crouch in red, white and black ❤️ pic.twitter.com/virRNULCuC
— St Kilda FC (@stkildafc) November 9, 2020
"Players acknowledge people make blues, no one's perfect. Everyone tries their best and at times it doesn't go to plan.
"He put his hand up, said I made a blue, spoke about it and people acknowledge that.
"Now we can help and support him … whether it's Brad's issue or an injury, we need to be around our people."
Crouch was taken with the number second overall pick in the 2011 mini draft by the Crows and has played 95 career games in the AFL.
Midfielder
Disposals
Tackles
Clearances
The 27-year-old played in the Crows' 2017 Grand Final loss to Richmond and also earned a best and fairest honor in 2018 before opting to leave for St Kilda via free agency at the end of 2020.
