Sam Draper, born on September 28, 1998, in Australia, is a talented Australian rules footballer who currently plays as a ruckman for the Essendon Football Club in the AFL. Growing up in Brede, East Sussex, Sam's parents, who are English, moved to Australia while his mother was pregnant with him. Sam was born shortly after they landed in Australia, and the family eventually returned to England when Sam was three. However, they moved back to Australia when Sam was nine, along with his brothers and sisters.
Before his successful career in Australian rules football, Sam's athletic journey began as a soccer player. He idolized soccer legends Wayne Rooney and Nemanja Vidic, and initially pursued a career in the sport. Sam played soccer in Adelaide until he outgrew his position as a central defender. At the age of 11, he transitioned to Australian rules football, where he found his true passion and talent.
Sam's dedication and skill in Australian rules football quickly caught the attention of talent scouts, leading to him being the first draft pick in the 2017 AFL rookie draft. His impressive performance on the field earned him the nickname "The Mullet," affectionately given by his fans. With his remarkable height and athleticism, Sam excelled in the ruckman position for the Essendon Football Club, showcasing his strength and agility in every game he played.
Off the field, Sam has gained a considerable following on Instagram, with over 60,000 followers who support and admire his talent both on and off the field. Despite his success in professional sports, Sam has expressed his aspirations beyond football, stating that he would like to pursue a career as a barber or even start his own clothing line once he retires.
Family plays a significant role in Sam's life, with his parents and extended family providing unwavering support throughout his journey. Despite the multiple moves between Australia and England during his childhood, Sam remains grounded in his roots and values the bond he shares with his loved ones. His upbringing in Brede, East Sussex, has shaped him into the dedicated and driven individual he is today.
Sam's teammates at Essendon, including Dyson Heppell and Andrew McGrath, form a close-knit community that supports each other on and off the field. Their camaraderie and team spirit contribute to the success of the Essendon Football Club, with Sam's contributions as a ruckman playing a pivotal role in their performance.
As Sam continues to make a name for himself in the AFL and beyond, his passion for the sport and dedication to his craft set him apart as a rising star in Australian rules football. With a bright future ahead, Sam Draper's journey is a testament to hard work, perseverance, and unwavering determination to succeed in the face of challenges.