Camporeale, who turned 30 in August, estimated he could play as many as four more seasons of AFL football. "There were a few reasons, but the biggest one was just the enjoyment factor," he said of his move. "I'm late in my career and just wanted a change and wasn't really enjoying myself, and I just feel like a new recruit now. I didn't sleep last night, I was like a new draftee."
Camporeale said the disillusionment of his fall-out with his old club, and having to train by himself before being given permission to train at Windy Hill, had made him more appreciative of his second chance.
"You certainly learn a lot more about yourself when you get put in that situation," he said. "I've probably been a bit blessed that I haven't had to worry about those sort of things, and I guess I've been a bit ignorant towards that.
"Essendon is a great club. I've played a lot of times against them, and really enjoyed playing against the group of guys they've got here. I think they've got a good mix between young and old guys that can definitely play in finals, and hopefully win a premiership in the time I'm here."