Campbell Edwardes has impressive resume but isn’t getting his draft hopes up

Campbell Edwardes has long been on the draft radar and hopes his resume is enough to earn a shot at the big time but has plans in place if it doesn’t work out.

Campbell Edwardes in action for Calder Cannons.

Calder Cannons youngster Campbell Edwardes hopes he has the runs on the board to impress AFL recruiters.

His resume is certainly impressive – All-Australian at under-16 level, Vic Metro Under-18 National Championships squad member at 17, AFL Academy member and 196cm but with the versatility to play every position on the ground.

Edwardes is a unique AFL Draft prospect, most at home on a wing and through midfield, yet capable of dropping back to help in defence and getting forward as a marking target.

“I think the body of work I’ve put in will help me stay in contention for this year,” Edwardes said.

“I just have to hope that what I’ve done in the 16s and last year is enough to have my name read out.

Campbell Edwardes in action for Calder Cannons.

“It’s always been something I’ve focused on, being able to swing either end or go through the middle, hopefully that appeals to clubs.

“I think I play my best footy around the ball – in 16s when I went in the ruck for Metro and last year when I played on the wing.

“You don’t see too many 196cm wingman.”

The Keilor junior – who counts Mick McGuane as one of his mentors – has endured a rollercoaster 2020.

Robbed of the chance to play footy by a global pandemic like all Victorian hopefuls, Edwardes also suffered a hip injury mid-year and underwent surgery on a torn labrum last week.

It meant he was unable to compete at the Vic Metro combine and pre-draft training session.

“Especially in my 16s year when I was trying out for Vic Metro, I had a few chats with Mick, he’s been a great help,” Edwardes said

“It was tough, I thought I’d be fine but then a couple of weeks went by in lockdown and I started to go a bit insane.

Campbell Edwardes stretches for the mark.

Campbell Edwardes spoils Reef McInnes.

“I focused more on school, rather than worry about what’s going to happen I put all my eggs in the school basket and let footy take care of itself.”

Pleased with his exams, the Penleigh Essendon Grammar student hopes to study physiotherapy at LaTrobe University.

In 10 NAB League games last season, Edwardes averaged nine disposals and three marks a game.

Given his time in the elite AFL pathway system, Edwardes has been in contact with clubs and has had several interviews ahead of the draft.

However, if his name isn’t called out on Wednesday night he will look to return to Calder as a 19-year-old to continue his development.

CANNONS: ALLISON KEEPING LID ON DRAFT NERVES

LEADER: GET YOUR NAB LEAGUE FOOTY NEWS HERE

CANNONS: BRAND COULD BE DONS’ NEXT FLETCHER

“It’s a big week, I’m taking it how it comes and not expecting too much,” he said.

“I’ve had a few chats with Burto (talent manager Matt Burton), and if it doesn’t happen I’ll be back ready to go for next year and throw everything at it.

“Over the past couple of years I’ve spoken to most of the clubs.

“I had a few Zoom interviews (this year), which were pretty daunting, but to have a couple of clubs reach out was really good.”