Mitch Brown

The Supplemental Signing Period (SSP) ran from December 1 through March 13, allowing clubs to sign rookie players provided they had room on their lists and salary caps. A number of clubs took advantage of the period to round out their playing lists.

ESSENDON

Concerned with the poor depth in the ruck and up forward with Tom Bellchambers injured and the return of Joe Daniher (groin) still indefinite, the Bombers have signed former swimming champion Henry Crauford under the SSP rules. Crauford, 22 years old and 6'3", competed in swimming at state and national levels before returning to football in 2016. He played for Norwood in the SANFL in 2019 and played 19 games for Norwood's reserves side. Several clubs showed some interest in Crauford but he was overlooked in last year's draft. Athletic and with good endurance for his size, he can play both ruck and as a tall forward.

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

This round's milestones include:

250 games: Brent Guerra (HAW)
200 games: Justin Koschitzke (StK)
150 games: Brent Staker (BRIS)
50 games: Luke Parker (SYD)
50 games: Brodie Smith (ADE)
50 games: Daniel Talia (ADE)

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

GWS Giants traded Jack Hombsch and Jake Neade (NT Zone Selection) to Port Adelaide for its Round Two Selection.

by Lisa Albergo reporting for AFANA from Chicago

Round 19 was Kevin Sheedy's 1000th game. He is the only person in League history to be involved in 1000 games as a player or coach. Sheedy's career began at Richmond where he played 251 games, eight pre-season games and eight State of Origin games as a Victorian representative. His coaching career includes 653 games with Essendon and GWS, 72 pre-season games, four State of Origin games and four International Rules games.

There was no shortage of tributes during the week from all sectors for Sheedy. A large contingent of former Richmond and Essendon players attended the game and the pre-game program included tributes as well. All fans attending the game received commemorative flags marking the occasion. After the game, Sheedy and the players were available on the ground for a special kick-to-kick with fans as well as photos and autographs.