Fischer McAsey poses with Crows coach Matthew Nicks after being taken with Pick 6 in the 2019 draft. Picture: Michael Willson Source: Getty Images “I am very grateful to the club for their support and allowing me some time to reflect on where I want to be moving forward.
“There has been a large number of people who have worked very hard on my development as a player and person, and for that I’m highly appreciative.
“Not everyone will understand the decision, but I’m comfortable with the path that I’m headed, and am excited by the ability to pursue other interests.
“I will always be thankful to the Crows for giving me the opportunity to live out a boyhood dream, and I wish everyone at the Club the best for 2023 and beyond.”
McAsey, who’ll be placed on Adelaide’s inactive list for the 2023 season, was drafted by the Crows with Pick 6 in the 2019 draft. He was the equal second-highest draft pick in Crows history after Riley Thilthorpe (Pick 2, 2020) and Josh Rachele (Pick 6, 2021).
“The welfare of our players is always our top priority and while we are naturally disappointed to see Fischer step away, we understand the reasons behind his decision and there is much more to life than football,” Crows football boss Adam Kelly said.
Fischer McAsey playing for the Crows’ SANFL side. Picture: David Mariuz Source: Supplied “We were fully supportive of his request for personal leave in November and remained in regular communication with both Fischer and his management during the past two months.
“We respect his decision and we would like to thank him for his contribution, and he will always be welcome at our club.”
An East Brighton and Sandringham Dragons product, McAsey reportedly turned his back on interest from Victorian clubs early in April 2021 and signed a new deal that tied him to the Crows until at least the end of 2023. He was moved from the backline to the forward 50 at SANFL level last year but couldn’t break into Adelaide’s senior side.
McAsey had been linked to a move to Carlton late in the 2022 season, but nothing eventuated during the trade period before he was granted personal leave by Adelaide.
McAsey initially wasn’t expected to return to Crows pre-season training until at least after Christmas, but he chose to walk away from the club just under nine weeks before Round 1.
