Mark Ricciuto is one of the greatest Adelaide Crows players of all time. He was a premiership player, a Brownlow Medalist, and a regular All-Australian, and three time Malcolm Blight Medalist. He was also a great leader and mentor to younger players, captaining the team from 2001 until his retirement in 2007.
Ricciuto was born and raised in Waikerie, South Australia. He started playing football at a young age and quickly showed his talent. He was drafted by the Adelaide Crows in 1992 with a zone selection.
Ricciuto made his AFL debut in 1993 and quickly became one of the best players in the competition. He was known for his athleticism, skill, and toughness. He was also a very intelligent player, with a great understanding of the game and was powerful and ferocious midfielder that boast great strength.
He cruelly missed out on the 1997 Grand Final after sustaining a groin injury late in the season. He returned to play all but two games in following season as the Crows made it to the final day once again. Ricciuto booted a goal in the sides victory to taste premiership glory. He also took out the clubs best and fairest and was named in the All Australian team that season.
In 2003, we earn’t the AFL’s highest individual honour, winning the Brownlow Medal in a tie with Collingwood’s Nathan Buckley as the leagues best and fairest that year. He would go on to be runner up the following season.
Ricciuto would go on to have a celebrated career, playing a total of 312 games for the Crows and earning a huge eight All Australian selections including two as captain.
