New Adelaide recruit Ben Crocker has revealed his perception of former Crows captain Taylor Walker has changed since his arrival at the club.
Speaking to Kane Cornes and Andrew Hayes on SEN SA Breakfast, Crocker said Walker has made his arrival to the club enjoyable and has really clicked with him.
“Whenever I played against Tex I watched him and thought, ‘I’m not going to like Tex’, but since the day I walked in he’s been one of the best blokes,” Crocker said.
“He’s so genuine, he’s funny and he’s a good leader
“I’ve really clicked with him and I’m really enjoying my time with him.”
Crocker, who played 26 games for the Pies over a span of four seasons, said he was not expecting to land at the Crows but was excited for the opportunity at a new club and what the future may hold for him.
“I was a little bit surprised, I had a bit of contact with their list manager and Nicksy (Matthew Nicks) but I had no idea I’d be coming over here, let alone there was a bit of doubt that I’d even be picked up again,” he said.
“The fans should be really excited about what we could potentially produce and hopefully I’m involved a lot more and able to play a lot more senior footy.
“I’m definitely confident I have what it takes to be in the best 22 but in saying that I’m not just going to walk in, I have to prove that I can do this.”
Crocker has been impressed with new coach Matthew Nicks and how open and supportive the group have been to him.
“The group has been so welcoming, I feel like I’ve been here for a few months already,” he said.
“It’s a pretty young list at the moment and with Nicksy coming over everything is going to be pretty fresh for everyone.
“He’s awesome, such a relaxed nice guy. I haven’t had too much to do with him yet but the conversations I’ve had with him were positive. He seems like he’s interested in more than just a footballer. He’s interested in the personal development and how everyone’s feeling.”
Crocker joined the Crows as a mature-age selection in last week's rookie draft along with Ben Keays, who joined the Crows from Brisbane.