Leeton-Whitton coach Sam Darley reflects on the 2021 season

The Crows season came to an early halt when lockdown was implemented across regional NSW and AFL Riverina subsequently decided the final round of home and away matches would not be going ahead.

Leeton-Whitton had been scheduled to play MCUE in this final game, with Darley confident the Crows could have won given their standout form at the back end of the season which saw them win games against Turvey Park and Collingullie-Glenfield Park.

"I'm disappointed for the boys that we didn't get to have one final crack, but that's just the way things are at the moment, there's bigger things going on," he said.

The Crows will lament what could have been in season 2021 after they started off poorly, but really started to hit their strides late in the year.

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The turning point came after their first match up with MCUE where the Crows were embarrassed, resulting in senior players to stand up and question the playing group's commitment.

"That wasn't prompted by me, but that is where we really started to turnaround ... that for me was a highlight because as a playing group we really started to see improvement," Darley said.

Another highlight for the coach was after the most-recent victory against the Demons where the side was able to turn their phones off and sit as a team after the game in the sheds enjoying a drink together.

"That's what footy is all about," Darley said.

"We don't know when we will be able to get together again as a group, so to have that moment with just us, that's something I will remember."

With the Crows growing plenty of junior talent, Darley said he was hopeful the team would stay together.

However, he does see a bright future for many of the young guns at a higher level.

"Ryan Grey, I've told him personally - whether it's this year or next year - to try and play at a higher level," Darley said.

"Whether that's SANFL or VFL, I honestly think he is that good. I'd love to see him have a crack."

Darley himself is contracted to coach and play with the Crows next season, but like most things at the moment, this isn't exactly set in stone.

Darley's partner and son may possibly be making the move back to Victoria and, if border issues continue to be difficult, this may force him into making some tough decisions.

"I've loved my time here, but depending on what happens there with my partner and son, I'll have a decision to make," he said.

"Family definitely comes first for me. I don't want to miss out on time with them and seeing my young boy grow up."

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