Tom Campbell

Guernsey number: 45

2013 games: 6

Career games: 13

2013 goals: 9

Career goals: 12

Season in short:

The developing tall spent most of 2013 with VFL affiliate Williamstown before playing an important role in the Club’s last five matches. After coming in as an emergency in round three, Campbell returned in round 19 against Sydney to boot the first two goals of the game and maintained that momentum until season’s end. A heavy collision with the goalpost against Carlton in round 20 couldn’t stop Campbell on his way to three tackles and a goal, while his four goals against Adelaide the following week signalled a career best display. The big man contested strongly up forward and had effective stints in the ruck.

Stat that mattered:

While Campbell has long been groomed as a highly capable tap ruckman, his emerging confidence in the forward line this season was impressive. The 22-year-old had a total of 47 disposals this season and 22 of those had a direct impact on the scoreboard (nine goals, seven behinds and six goal assists).

What they said:

“Those two good marks in the first quarter where he finished off really well got his confidence up and going but also I think started to draw the Sydney defenders to him. He didn’t have a massive stats game, Tommy Campbell, but his impact structurally to give Will [Minson] a chop out in the ruck which was really needed… but also to provide that great contest and really provide a big beacon for our smalls to get to.”

- Development Coach Ashley Hansen after round 19 against Sydney

Pre-season focus:

A continued emphasis on forward craft will position Campbell well to attack season 2014. While he has shown natural ability as a ruckman, his increasing impact around the ground makes him a more valuable asset to the Bulldogs side.