Ashley Sampi facts for kids

Ashley Sampi, born on January 21, 1984, is an Indigenous Australian who became a famous player in the Australian rules football league. He played for the West Coast Eagles team. He is especially remembered for making an amazing catch, called the "Mark of the Year," in 2004.

Early Life and School

Ashley Sampi grew up in Perth, Western Australia. He went to school at Trinity College there.

Playing in the AFL

Ashley Sampi was chosen by the West Coast Eagles team in the 2001 AFL draft. This means he was one of the top young players picked to join the professional league.

First Games and Goals

He played his very first game against the Geelong team in July 2002. In his first year, Ashley played four games, including one final match.

In 2003, Ashley showed off his skills by kicking four goals in a game against Fremantle. He was even voted the best player on the field by the judges. He was later officially given the Glendinning–Allan Medal for this great performance in August 2023.

Mark of the Year and Grand Final

In 2004, Ashley Sampi won the exciting AFL Mark of the Year award. This award is given for the most spectacular catch of the football during a game.

The next year, in 2005, he played for the Eagles in the 2005 AFL Grand Final. This is the biggest game of the year, like a championship. The Eagles played against the Sydney team, but they lost by just four points.

In 2006, Ashley played in 12 games. However, he was not chosen to play in the 2006 AFL Grand Final. That year, the Eagles won the premiership, which is like winning the championship trophy.

Later Career Challenges

In 2007, Ashley Sampi faced some health challenges and did not play any games for the Eagles. He spent most of that season in Broome. After the season, he was no longer part of the Eagles team.

Ashley's Family Life

Ashley Sampi is married to his wife, Gerri, and they have several children.

In May 2022, Ashley shared that he had been diagnosed with a health condition called multiple sclerosis (MS).