Richmond youngster Brandon Ellis burst onto the AFL season in 2012, playing 21 games and earning a nomination for the AFL’s Rising Star award.

Playing in a variety of roles all over the ground, Ellis has already proven he has what it takes to mix it at the top level, showing a level of maturity and skill beyond his years.

But it hasn’t been all smooth sailing for the 19-year-old, who briefly gave the game away while he cared for his father, Dale, who had been diagnosed with cancer when Ellis was just 15 years of age.

In an in depth interview with Fox Sports, which was shown to guests at the 2012 Rising Star function recently, Ellis spoke about the constant motivation he draws from his father, his journey to the big league, and his ongoing quest to make his family proud.

Click the player above to watch the video.