At first it was Taylor Walker's trademark mullet and laidback personality that caught the attention of fans and the media. But behind the larrikin from Broken Hill was a fiercely driven competitor who knuckled down and turned himself into an elite footballer. Walker retired as one of Adelaide's greatest players - a champion forward and cult hero.
Few were more surprised than Tex when Phil Walsh asked him to captain the club in late 2014. He rose to the challenge and helped lead the Crows through the unimaginable tragedy of Walsh's death in 2015, then steered his teammates to a grand final just two years later.
Over nearly two decades in the AFL, Tex adapted constantly - to five new coaches, evolving game plans, changing teammates and the physical demands of a long career. He dealt with setbacks and was no stranger to controversy, owning his mistakes and learning from them. His experience, footy IQ and leadership were invaluable to the next generation of Crows coming through.
This is a tailor-made story about making the most of your talent, staying true to who you are, always challenging yourself to improve - on and off the field - and appreciating every single person who helps to make your dreams come true. And having a good time while you're at it.
