Versatile Hawthorn forward Paul Puopolo is set to play his 150th game against Geelong at the MCG in this weekend’s Easter Monday blockbuster.
Selected with Pick 66 in the 2010 AFL Draft at 23 years of age, Puopolo made his debut for the Hawks against Port Adelaide in Round 7, 2011.
The Norwood recruit went on to play every game for the remainder of that season before taking out the club’s Best First Year Player award.
Initially drafted as a lockdown small defender, ‘Poppy’ soon found his niche in the Hawks side as a defensive forward, soon becoming renowned for his high-marking ability and relentless pressure.
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An integral part of the Hawks’ 2013-15 premiership glory, the 30-year-old had arguably his best season in 2016 kicking a career-high 34 goals and securing three separate Mark of the Year nominations.
Whilst the second half of his 2017 campaign was marred by a groin injury, the South-Australian achieved a career-best average of 5.8 tackles across his 15 games.
A favourite amongst Hawks fans, Puopolo will be hoping for another stellar year this season as the Hawks push to play finals.
