Curtly Hampton

Hampton was one of the first players to be recruited by the Giants, using one of their Northern Territory zone selections in 2010. He had captained the Australian Institute of Sport academy team and was likened to former Adelaide star Andrew McLeod.[1] In February 2011, Hampton had the distinction of kicking Greater Western Sydney's first ever goal, in a match against an AFL Sydney under 21s side.[4]

Hampton made his AFL debut in Greater Western Sydney's first AFL game, in round 1 of 2012 against Sydney at ANZ Stadium, and went on to play 17 matches in his first year, playing both in attack and in defence.[5] Hampton established himself in 2013 as a running defender, a position he had never played prior to AFL level, playing 18 matches and considerably improving on his 2012 output.[6]

Hampton started well in 2014, starring at half-back for the first seven rounds before injuries derailed the latter part of his season,[7] including a shoulder injury that would keep him out for six weeks.[8] He then played just five games in 2015, dominating in the NEAFL but failing to make an impact when called up to the AFL side.[7] At the end of the season, Hampton decided to explore trade options and was ultimately traded to the Adelaide Football Club in exchange for a 2016 second-round draft pick.[2]

Hampton's new start at the Crows was delayed by a foot injury that ultimately sidelined him for the entire season.[9] He made his debut for the Crows in Round 1, 2017 against his old side, the Giants.[10] On 18 July 2018, Hampton announced he was retiring from professional football.[11]