Gray, 21, was drafted from the club's SANFL side via the 2014 rookie draft and has overcome a pre-season shoulder injury to play strong football in the opening rounds of state league’s season.
From Rudall in Port Adelaide’s country zone on the Eyre Peninsula, he joins the likes of Brad Ebert and numerous foundation Power players as a product of the club’s traditional player development pathway in the SANFL to be placed on the club’s senior list.
With Mason Shaw recovering from a significant wrist sprain on the club’s long-term injury list, Gray will be available for consideration in the Power lineup until the tall forward returns.
Assistant forwards coach Tyson Edwards praised Gray's effort during the pre-season, saying the 2013 A.R. McLean Medallist had been one of the club's most consistent SANFL players since returning from a shoulder injury at the end of summer.
"Sammy really impressed us early in pre-season, but hurt his shoulder around the Christmas break," Edwards told portadelaidefc.com.au.
"He missed a bit of pre-season because of that, but has come back and been in the top three best players every week for the SANFL team since then.
"He's a really smart footballer and it's great that he's getting his opportunity."
Gray joins Brent Renouf as an elevated rookie, with both Shaw and ruckman Jarrad Redden on the long term injury list.
He told portadelaidefc.com.au of the thrill to be told the news by the club's senior coach Ken Hinkley on Thursday.
“When Ken told me I was pretty excited, it’s been a good time since I joined the Power list,” Gray said.
“It’s unfortunate it comes with Mason being injured, but he should back soon.
“It’s just the way it is that I’ll be on the senior list for a short time, but I plan on making the most of it.
“I’ve just worked on the things Kenny’s been telling me to do and he’s been happy with what I’ve done in the last few games.”
