World of Boxing and Rugby Union
Winger
1. David Campese
Brash but brilliant, arrogant but awe-inspiring, David Campease had it all. The winger lit up three World Cups for Australia
David Campese is one of the game's great players and someone who had the ability to polarise supporters. Brash, arrogant and brilliant, 'Campo' bewitched defences and infuriated opponents the world over during a career that took in 101 international caps and 64 tries.
He made his international debut against New Zealand in 1982, confounding and irritating great All Black wing Stu Wilson first with his words and then with his goose-step. The All Blacks had their revenge on Campese the following year when he was entrusted with the goal-kicking at Sydney Cricket Ground, missing all four of his kicks as the Wallabies lost 18-8.
Campese's attacking brilliance was often counterbalanced by his risk-taking in defence which occasionally landed him and his team in trouble, never more painfully than against the Lions in 1989 when his blunder cost his side the match and ultimately the series.
But more often he was the inspiration. His 'miracle pass' to set up a try for Tim Horan against the All Blacks at the 1991 World Cup - which Australia went on to win - epitomised his considerable powers of
invention and execution. Following the tournament Campese was named as World Player of the Year in 1992.
In an international career spanning 15 years, he played more Test matches for Australia and scored more tries than any other player in the history of the game. Orthodox or unorthodox Campese has always been memorable entertainment. Fast and elusive, and of course with that unique 'goosestep', he has over the years provided us with his own brand of magic on the field.
David Campese once said, “I want to be remembered like Barry John in Wales. I want people to look back and say Campo did this, this and this.” After the 1991 Rugby World Cup, former Welsh great Barry John said, "Like Pele, he is associated with the very best and historic moments in sport; he has a special genius which shows an individual can still paint his own portrait and leave an indelible mark for all to treasure. The ingredients are all the same: stature, presence, personality, style and an immense belief in the God-given talents.” With praise like that how could he not be included?
Click here to add your own text and edit me. I’m a great place for you to tell a story and let your users know a little more about you.
He retired in 1996 as the game was making the transition to professionalism and embracing qualities that Campese had long held for himself. Typically, his final act was to announce his wealth to the public, angering amateur purists, but he was never likely to bow out quietly.
In retirement he has continued to provide outspoken quotes to the media - usually on the subject of English rugby