After four injury-interrupted seasons with the West Coast Eagles, young wingman Campbell Chesser has made a significant career move, seeking a fresh start with the Carlton Blues.
A New Chapter in Melbourne
The 22-year-old, originally a first-round selection in the talent-rich 2021 'Super Draft', turned down a new two-year contract offer from the Eagles to return to his home state of Victoria. Chesser, who attended Melbourne Grammar, cited the desire for a new environment and the support of family and friends as key reasons for the switch.
"I was finally starting to get some continuity in my body and confidence in my game, and I just needed a fresh start," Chesser told AAP. "Coming to a great club back in Melbourne with my family and friends around me, and just a fresh environment, has been an awesome change for me."
Overcoming Adversity at West Coast
Chesser's time in Perth was defined by persistent injury challenges. An ankle issue ruined his debut season, limiting his early impact. He managed to play 32 games across the 2023 and 2024 campaigns, showing glimpses of his potential. Ahead of the 2025 season, he underwent further ankle surgery but fought back to make four promising appearances late in the year.
Despite the setbacks, Chesser remains grateful for the support network he had at West Coast, even while far from home. He highlighted the camaraderie with teammates who were also battling injuries.
"I had a lot of great support around me over in Perth," he said. "Some that were injured at the same time - Oscar Allen, Tom Cole, Dom Sheed, who were great support to me, and I learned a lot from them and I’ll forever be grateful for that."
Proving a Point on the Wing
Now settled at Carlton, a club that finished 11th in 2025 after a slow start, Chesser is focused on the future. He insists his motivation is internal, aiming to repay the faith shown by the Blues in facilitating the trade.
"(Just a point to prove) to myself, and to the club for showing faith in me getting the trade done and getting me here," Chesser stated.
Carlton plans to utilise him in the wing role, a position he believes suits his natural strengths perfectly. "The wing role suits my strengths quite well," he explained. "Running and carrying the ball, bring some speed in transition on the wing, so that’s probably where I’ll look to play, and hopefully I get an opportunity."
This move marks a pivotal moment for the talented youngster, as he looks to put his injury history behind him and establish himself as a consistent performer in the navy blue.
