Gray returns home this week after competing in the U16 NAB Cup 2008 AFL National Championships on the Gold Coast where he and fellow EP footballer Scott Lycett, of Ceduna, were highlighted for their successes at the carnival.

“Sam Gray was named in the top four best players in all three games. He is a strong inside rover who has a very good game sense, coupled with a high level of skill,” SANFL talent manager Brenton Phillips said.

“Scott Lycett was the most exciting ruckman/forward of the carnival.

“He is a very mobile ruckman that can take a strong, contested mark while also having the ability to compete for a ground ball.”

Gray is now gearing up for his next two challenges – a grand final berth for Rudall Senior Colts and, hopefully, another with the Port Adelaide Under 17s.

“It was a big education, living away and training with new team members,” he said.

“There was a high level of skill across the board, which made me push myself harder.

“It’s opening doors for me. One day, I want to play AFL.

“Growing up on the Eyre Peninsula has been great for my football, playing with my friends. I’ve had lots of support at Rudall where I’ve played all my juniors.

“It’s been good and I’m ready to keep going forward now.”

Results from the U16 NAB Cup 2008 AFL National Championships were as follows:

Monday, July 28 - Broadbeach

South Australia 11-5 (71)

Vic Country 13-11 (89)

Thursday, July 31 - Southport Oval

South Australia 11-15 (81)

Vic Metro 11-14 (80)

Sunday, August 3 - Carrara Oval

South Australia 11-3 (69)

Western Australia 12-6 (78)