If her footy had flown under the radar for most of her career to date, the footy world certainly took notice of Shannon Campbell in Season 7.

A Foundation Lion and a key cog in Brisbane’s defensive machine, Campbell was as courageous as ever in 2022.

After a Season 6 campaign hampered by injuries, the 26-year-old didn’t miss a beat in S7, playing all 13 games for the Lions.

The brave defender continued to write her way into Brisbane’s history books in Round 1, becoming just the fourth Lions player to notch up her 50-game milestone.

Before the season, Campbell spoke on the pride she feels in being a part of the Club.

“It meant the world to be able to play 50 games for this Club,” she said.

“To still be a part of this Club and be part of that ‘OG’ group that has been here since day one is amazing. I just want to continually work on myself and become the better player, leader, and person.”

Fast-forward to the biggest game of the season, where Campbell broke yet another record, being named the best on ground in a Grand Final, despite being a part of the losing side.

While the honour may not sit comfortably with the humble defender, it speaks volumes on her relentless drive to become a better player.

Campbell’s performance in the Grand Final was immense, registering 562 metres gained from 19 disposals including eight marks and nine intercepts.

She stood up when her Skipper, Bre Koenen went off the ground with a knee injury and gave the Lions energy off half-back.

Polling 12 of a possible 15 votes to win the best on ground medal, she walked to the stage exhausted and apologetically.

"Sorry if I don't talk very well, I've been over there just nearly vomiting," Campbell said. 

But it was that level of dedication that her teammates and Brisbane fans have grown to adore about the 26-year-old, with Head Coach, Craig Starcevich full of praise for his defender.

“She was amazing,” he said.

"Her courage to read (and) intercept was fantastic, she was clean, you know that little period there ... maybe the third quarter where she was picking them off around the arc and sending them back in. We looked dangerous while she was in that frame of mind.  

"It'll be cold comfort to her that she's done that in a losing team, but she can hold her head up like most of our players. They've all had some pretty good years so yeah, just tough that the season finishes on a day like this." 

Campbell’s performance even received praise from Melbourne Captain, Daisy Pearce on the day.

“She’s such a good defender. She’s hard to beat one-on-one, a bit of a brick wall and I certainly had a tough day against her,” Pearce said.

"She had some incredible moments today as a defender. All credit to her she's an underrated sort of understated operator." 

And if her pursuit of constant improvement continues into 2023, Campbell’s impact will only become greater.

Shannon plays her game ALL IN, ALL THE TIME. Be more like Shannon, secure your membership here.