From a premiership with Keilor, to a stint with Essendon in the Victorian Football League, and now to the big league with Richmond, it has been a whirlwind six months for Campbell Gray.
The 20-year-old, 195 centimetre utility was taken by Richmond with pick 16 of the AFL mid season rookie draft. on Wednesday.
Gray was interviewed on the draft broadcast on Wednesday night moments after being selected and he was completely shellshocked.
“It’s crazy… just unbelievable to be honest, just can’t wait,” he said.
Gray was surrounded by Essendon VFL teammates as he learned his fate and he said he attributes his selection to the help they have given him since he joined the club this season.
“I wouldn’t be where I am without them, they’ve pushed me harder… When it comes to standards they’ve really brought it out of me and made me a better player,” he said.
“It’s been a quick turnaround, six months. Just grateful for people believing in me and giving me the tools to be able to work my craft and just get better.
“Just week in, week out, doing everything right and it’s paid off.”
Gray played every game for Keilor in its Essendon District Football League premier division premiership season last year, kicking 17 goals in 20 matches.
Richmond recruiters couldn’t speak more highly of their new recruit.
“Campbell has played every game for Essendon VFL in 2024, as a key position utility, spending time in defence, forward and ruck,” recruiters said in a statement on the Richmond website.
“He is a versatile, competitive key position player who is strong in the air and has excellent recovery and intent at ground level. He is an extremely likeable and hardworking character, currently a fourth year apprentice electrician whilst balancing VFL commitments.
