South Australia has produced some of the game's greatest players.

Ranging from premiership captains to Brownlow medallists, the traditional football state has a proud history in the game, playing host to a competition for over a century.

Taking a look back on the best players to come from the SANFL, we've named the greatest player each club has produced for the AFL since the century began.

Here's who we've selected, along with a few honourable mentions for each SANFL club...

4. Norwood

Heath Grundy

A key pillar of Sydney's defence for more than a decade, Heath Grundy may not be Norwood's most recognisable product, but arguably its most effective.

Perhaps the epitome of Sydney's era of sustained success, Grundy was another of the Swans' shrewd recruits after being taken in a bargain at pick 42 in the 2005 rookie draft.

Initially used as a forward in his early days at the Swans, Grundy kicked three goals in his debut against Richmond before eventually being switched to defence, where he emerged as one of the best full-backs in the competition.

Using his size and strength to his advantage, Grundy consistently blunted the impact of opposition key forwards and was a crucial member of the Swans' 2012 premiership.

Coming with a rush to claim this title is Brisbane forward/midfielder Zac Bailey, who is starting to cement his place as one of the competition's most dangerous prospects.

Max Michalanney, the son of Norwood great Jim, is an emerging star in Adelaide's defence, while another descendant of Redlegs royalty, James Aish, has carved out a fine AFL career.

Triple premiership small forward Paul Puopolo and livewire goal sneak Orazio Fantasia are other names to have kick-started careers at The Parade.

SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 15: Heath Grundy of the Swans is carried from the field after victory during the round 13 AFL match between the Sydney Swans and the West Coast Eagles at Sydney Cricket Ground on June 15, 2018 in Sydney, Australia. (Photo by Brett Hemmings/Getty Images)