Adelaide coach Don Pyke has resigned, effective immediately.
It follows two seasons of subpar performances from the Crows, who reached the Grand Final in 2017, but failed to make it in 2018 and 2019.
Pyke was appointed senior coach of the Crows at the start of 2016.
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Speaking to afc.com.au, Pyke explained his decision.
“It has been an absolute privilege and joy to coach this Club and I have loved my time here trying to achieve great things with our players for our Members and fans,” Pyke said.
“I came here with the aim of helping our players to individually and collectively be the best they can be and this has been my driving force.
“It has been a wonderful ride with some great memories and unfortunately some sad times, but now it is clear to me it is my time to move on knowing I have given my all.
“This decision has been extraordinarily difficult to reach but vital for me is the Club and playing group being able to move forward, and the health and happiness of important people in my life.”
Adelaide chairman Rob Chapman said he respected Pyke's decision, after it was first raised about a fortnight ago.
“First and foremost, Don is a quality person of high integrity who is driven by strong values, but he is also a talented coach and leader,” Chapman said.
“He took charge of the team at the end of 2015 as everyone in the Crows family was emerging from the most tragic of circumstances and he led with compassion, while bringing a thorough approach and driving high standards both on and off the field."
Crows CEO Andrew Fagan echoed Chapman's comments, thanking Pyke for his service to the club.
“Don has given his all to the Club and his work ethic, competitiveness and love for footy is immense, and we will always be grateful for the positive contribution he has made,” Fagan said.
“This industry demands that you move quickly and the search for a replacement now begins in earnest, and we will use the learnings and reflections gleaned from the current internal and external reviews to ensure we find the best possible candidate to steer us into a new era.”
Adelaide will announce the panel which will select the new senior coach in the coming days.