Ex-Adelaide forward Lachlan Murphy will join local SA club Port Noarlunga in the Southern Football League for the 2026 season following his axing from AFL level in September.
The 27-year-old will look to assist the historic South Australian side compete for back-to-back flags, and the club’s sixth since it was founded in 1935.
Murphy played 120 games for the Crows after he was drafted with Pick 38 in the 2018 Rookie Draft, but found himself out of favour as the club soared to the minor premiership.
His best year at AFL level came in 2023, where the then 25-year-old featured in all 22 senior games for the Crows and averaged 15.0 disposals and 5.0 score involvements per match.
Port Noarlunga, also known as the Cockle Divers, stated that Murphy’s “elite experience, leadership, and passion” will be a huge asset to their A Grade squad.
ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA – JULY 30: Lachlan Murphy of the Crows celebrates a goal during the 2022 AFL Round 20 match between the Adelaide Crows and the Carlton Blues at the Adelaide Oval on July 30, 2022 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Sarah Reed/AFL Photos via Getty Images)
“Lachlan’s commitment to community footy and passion in mentoring young talent will be a huge asset as we build upon the success of this year,” the club statement read.
“I’m really excited to join Port Noarlunga and get back to grassroots footy,” Murphy said.
“The club has a proud history and a great community vibe, and I can’t wait to contribute on and off the field. I’m looking forward to meeting the boys and the supporters and helping the Cockle Divers have a big season ahead.”
Murphy joins recently retired star Crow Brodie Smith in South Australia’s local leagues, with Smith joining the Seaton Ramblers in the Adelaide Football League’s third division.