The shift that lifted Keays to Club Champion

Reinventing oneself is no small task, yet Ben Keays, the Vice Captain of the Adelaide Crows,

embraced this challenge wholeheartedly. At 27 years old, he transitioned from being a key midfielder to taking on the role of a small pressure forward.

This change came as the club sought to develop its next generation of on-ballers after he joined from Brisbane in 2020 as a delisted free agent.

Keays approached this new position with determination, dedicating his pre-season to mastering the skills required for a forward.

His commitment to learning and adapting his game resulted in what many consider his most consistent season to date,

earning him the prestigious Malcolm Blight Medal as a joint winner in 2024.

Reflecting on his transition during an interview with AFC Media, Keays noted that he began to shift his focus last year,

balancing time between the forward line and midfield. By the end of that season, he found himself firmly entrenched as a forward in 2024.

“I locked in on that role during the pre-season,” he explained, emphasizing how this dedication allowed him to grow into his new position.

He expressed satisfaction with his development, acknowledging that learning the intricacies of being a forward significantly enhanced his versatility and overall performance.

As the season progressed, Keays felt increasingly comfortable in his role.

He described how minor adjustments within the team’s structure allowed him to contribute more effectively.

“Being part of the team for the entire season helped build my consistency and confidence,” he remarked, noting that improvements made during the season played a crucial role in his gameplay.

One standout moment for Keays this season was the thrilling match against Essendon at Marvel Stadium. In a game filled with dramatic momentum shifts, he delivered an impressive performance with five goals and 22 disposals, leading his team to a narrow victory. “That match was personally the best of my career,” he reflected, highlighting not only his individual success but also the grit shown by the team, particularly the younger players who stepped up despite injuries.

Despite finishing 15th in the standings, Keays remained optimistic about the lessons learned throughout the season. He recognized that the team faced considerable expectations and expressed confidence that their experiences would serve them well moving forward. “We learned a great deal this year,” he said, looking ahead to the future with determination. With his eyes set on improvement for the 2025 season, Keays believes that the squad has the talent necessary to achieve their goals, stressing the importance of hard work and a strong start next year.