Former The Southport School student Jock Campbell re-signs with Queensland Reds

RISING Gold Coast rugby star Jock Campbell is Queensland’s ultimate pathway success story, climbing from his high school B team to become the Reds’ reigning Super Rugby Rookie of the Year.

RISING Gold Coast rugby star Jock Campbell is Queensland’s ultimate pathway success story, climbing from his high school B team to become the Reds’ reigning Super Rugby Rookie of the Year.

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It has been a journey its protagonist can hardly believe, but the former TSS student’s story could have ended in disaster for Queensland.

A star turn at the 2016 Hong Kong 10s tournament, used by international sides as a warm-up tournament for the annual Hong Kong Sevens, brought French rugby scouts knocking on Campbell’s door.

CAMPBELL HAILS INFLUENCE OF THE SOUTHPORT SCHOOL

With only his second XV jersey and a club rugby premiership to show on his CV, a pathway to Super Rugby nearly impossible to envision, the find of the Reds’ 2019 season could have been delivered to a rival nation instead.

To Queensland’s gain, that budding French connection fizzled out and Campbell’s improbable rise to Super Rugby could begin.

Queensland Reds and Queensland Country outside back Jock Campbell. Picture: QRU - Brendan Hertel

The 24-year-old’s faith in the club rugby pathway was rewarded today when he signed a three-year contract extension to call Ballymore home until 2023.

“I’ve had a bit of time to reflect but I’m still pinching myself,” the Inverrell-born winger/fullback said.

“Considering it was all up in the air at the start of the year, to have this (contract) now is hard to believe.

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“There are so many good players playing club rugby that just need an opportunity, but if you take those (opportunities) coaches don’t care where you’ve come from; that’s a great thing for Queensland rugby.”

He could be forgiven for assuming his position in the Reds backline was assured after a superlative rookie season but Campbell knows he has a mammoth task ahead of him.

Campbell in action for the Reds against the Sharks in April. Picture: Anesh Debiky / AFP

The return from injury of Jordan Petaia, Filipo Daugunu and Jack Hardy plus the marquee signing of Brumbies ace Henry Speight has sent the battle for wing positions back to square one.

“I don’t think I’ve earned the position,” Campbell said.

“I was happy with how I played but with the great players coming back, we’ll all have to earn it in pre-season.

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“Hopefully the best players will play, which is what happened this year, and hopefully it continues to happen.”

Campbell’s comfort at fullback and flyhalf at a pinch is one sure advantage in a competition with specialist wingers for the all-important spot in the match day 23.