Captain Jordan Dawson has returned to training with Adelaide but remains in doubt for their away clash against reigning premiers Brisbane.
Dawson missed the Crows’ one-point win over St Kilda last Saturday night following the death of his brother in the family’s home town, Robe in South Australia’s south-east.
“He’s here today to train,” Crows coach Matthew Nicks told reporters at Adelaide’s West Lakes headquarters on Thursday.
“He trained with Robe a couple of days ago, went out to the local footy club and had a run around which was great for him to to get around loved ones and a lot of guys he’s grown up with.
“So he’s been getting out and staying active.
“But today we’ll just be checking to see where he’s at physically and mentally, and then a decision will be one we make together post the session to see how he’s going.
Jordan Dawson returned to the training field for the first time following the death of his brother
He was in attendance but did not play for Adelaide in their win over St Kilda where they paid tribute to his late brother
Jordan Dawson called his brother his idol in an emtional Instagram post following his passing
“I’m pretty sure he’s really keen to join the group again, but we’ll see.”
Nicks said Dawson, who watched his team down the Saints from the grandstand, had remained “strong” amid the family tragedy.
“It’s a really tough time … and he’s working his way through it; it’s a challenging time,” he said.
“It was pretty tough for him there the other night watching but I was really proud of the way that the footy club and our supporters and our members, everyone got around and showed their respect.”
In an emotional Instagram post shared with fans, Dawson opened up on the depth of his grief while outlining the commitment he intends to honour moving forward.
‘My brother. My idol. The hole in my heart hurts so bad pal but I know you’re at peace you made me who I am today and I’m going to pass every bit of that competitive, stubborn, caring and passionate nature onto your beautiful boy,’ he wrote.
The message also referenced Jaryd’s partner Jessica and their young son Hudson, with Dawson making clear the family will be supported.
‘Huddy and Jess have an army behind them. I’ll miss you and love you forever Rod’
Jaryd’s death came after a search earlier in the week, with his body later located near Robe in South Australia.
