The Bulldogs, with an eye to the future, had opted to off-load one of their playing stalwarts and invest in some youth.
They decided to release the smooth-moving, versatile Cameron, who had provided them with fine service over a decade, winning their Best and Fairest award in 1993.
Richmond, keen to inject more ready-made quality into its line-up, jumped at the chance to secure Cameron’s services.
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It was a good move by the Tigers, as Cameron became one of their most valuable players over the next five seasons.
From the outset of life at his new football home, Cameron had a major impact.
In Cameron’s 2000 debut season with Richmond, he played 19 games, averaging 17.7 disposals per match and finishing fifth in the Jack Dyer Medal, as the Tigers improved to ninth place on the ladder.
The following year, Cameron played a pivotal role in lifting Richmond into the finals.
He carved an impressive niche for himself across half-back, using his poise, creativity, running ability, and superb delivery of the ball, to full advantage for the Tigers.
Cameron was a natural right-footer, but was so proficient on his left foot, it was hard to tell which was his preferred side.
With his sheer class, in a sweeping role across half-back, he generated enormous drive for the Tiger team.
He played all 25 games that season, with Richmond making it through to the preliminary final, and averaged 19.3 disposals per match.
To cap off his excellent work in season 2001, he also managed to score 19 goals, mostly through long ‘bombs’ on the run, during his dashing forays forward.
Cameron was rewarded for his form that season with 11 votes in the Brownlow Medal and third placing in the Jack Dyer Medal.
Although Cameron didn’t quite reach the heights of his superb 2001 season, in the remaining two years of his career at Punt Road, due to a few injuries affecting his overall output, there’s no denying the overall worth of what he brought to the table at Tigerland.
Leon Cameron profile
Born: 2/9/1972
Height: 185cm
Playing weight: 82kg
Richmond draft history: Traded to the Tigers by the Bulldogs for National Draft picks 37 and 66
Guernsey number at Richmond: No. 15
Debut at Richmond: Round 1, 2000 v Melbourne, MCG
Games at Richmond (2000-2003): 84
Goals at Richmond: 40
