“His spirit and presence around the club is influential for his fellow teammates. Mason is the ultimate professional and true club person, committed to not only improving himself but doing anything possible to ensure his teammates are supported in their development,” Dodoro said.

“Mason is a much-loved teammate, highly respected by the wider club and adored by fans. He wears his heart on his sleeve, and we can’t wait to see him continue to grow as a player and person over the coming years.”

This masthead previously reported the Crows’ interest in the 25-year-old restricted free agent but that they were not super aggressive in their pursuit.

– Carla Jaeger

Walker signs on for 17th season

Taylor Walker has eschewed retirement talk, signing a contract extension that ties him to the Adelaide Crows for a 17th season.

The veteran power forward remains a key component of the rebuilding Crows, booting 54 goals so far this season – behind only Coleman Medal leader Charlie Curnow (61) – and is firmly in the running for a maiden All-Australian selection.

Taken with pick No.75 in the 2007 national draft, former skipper Walker, 33, has 590 goals in 255 matches.

“I have loved the journey so far and this year, getting back to playing some really exciting footy as a team,” Walker said.

“On a personal level, I’m pleased to be able to contribute to the team, and I take a lot of pride and satisfaction in helping our younger players who are starting out their own careers.

“You can see from the footy we’ve played this year that we’re heading in the right direction and, hopefully, we get reward for that in the near future.”

The Crows have slipped to 13th on the ladder, as they prepare to face Port Adelaide in a pivotal Showdown on Saturday.

Crows’ list boss Justin Reid said Walker was a leader on and off the field.

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“That he remains one of the best forwards in the competition at his age is a credit to his attitude and work ethic and standards he sets at training and on game day. We are, obviously, very pleased his career will continue in 2024, as I’m sure our members and fans will be as well,” Reid said.

While Walker has signed on, the future of Rory Sloane, also a former skipper, remains unclear. Sloane, 33, wants to play on for a 16th season. Sloane has played every game this season.

– Jon Pierik