As part of our celebration of 100 years of the Phelan Medal, each week we’re spotlighting a past Phelan Medallist and their contribution to AFL Sydney history.
Football Background
Full Name: Ned Campbell
Nickname: McLovin
Playing Position/s: Midfield
Playing Status: Current Player
Phelan Medal Receipt Year/s: 2023, 2024
Years playing in Sydney: 10+ years
Sydney Senior Club/s: North Shore Bombers
Sydney Junior Club/s: St Ives
Pocket Profile Questions
Toughest Opponent in Sydney?
UNSW (their whole midfield)
What did winning a Phelan Medal/s mean to you?
Mainly proud to win them for the Bombers. A great club, that's been a big part of my life and I was glad to be able to win it for them.
What impact did winning a Phelan Medal have on your playing career?
Honestly, not too much. I've always been loyal to North Shore and wouldn't change a thing.
What is your most memorable moment from your career in Sydney?
Winning back-to-back premierships in 2024 and 2025.
Did you have any pre-game superstitions or routines?
Sit at a coffee shop and drink a lot of coffee!
What is the best advice you received as a player and from who?
I've had heaps of great influences at North Shore, but my coach Ryan Meldrum is someone that stands out. Not through one specific piece of advice, more a lesson in how the way you carry yourself affects everyone around you. My brother Jack has been another big influence. He's taught me about resilience, staying enthusiastic and giving everything to the final siren (especially when things aren't going your way).
What would be one piece of advice for young players coming into AFL Sydney?
Buy into your club, put the team first and make as many friends as possible. It sounds cliché but in local sport it's true, the more you put in, the more you get back!
