David Campese

Campo — 64 Test tries, the most flamboyant Australian and the inventor of the goosestep.

David Ian Campese was born in Queanbeyan, New South Wales in 1962. He scored 64 Test tries — the world record at his retirement in 1996. His goosestep — a deceleration that seemed to pause mid-stride before acceleration — was the most imitated individual skill in rugby union. He won the Rugby World Cup in 1991 with Australia. His infamous attempted run from behind his own try line in the 1989 Lions series — resulting in a decisive knock-on that cost Australia the series — is rugby's most discussed individual error. He became a prominent commentator and critic of Australian rugby administration after retirement.

Campese was renowned for his attacking brilliance, pace, and ability to create tries from seemingly impossible positions. His trademark 'goose step' side-step bamboozled defenders, while his willingness to counter-attack from deep in his own territory made him a constant threat. He possessed exceptional ball-handling skills and vision that allowed him to create opportunities for teammates as well as himself.

Campese revolutionized the role of the rugby winger, transforming it from a primarily defensive position to an attacking weapon that could strike from anywhere on the field. His entertaining style and try-scoring prowess helped popularize rugby union globally during the amateur era.

• Rugby World Cup 1991
• World Player of Year 1991
• IRB Hall of Fame

Club Career

Club	Period	Apps
NSW Waratahs	1982–1996	—
Stade Français	1996–1998	—
Randwick	1982–1996	—
Australia	—	101