HAWTHORN forward Paul Puopolo says he doubted he’d make it in the AFL as he reflects on his first 49 games at the level.

Puopolo plays his 50^th AFL game against Gold Coast on Sunday, just two and a half years into his career.

Recruited from Norwood in South Australia, Pupolo was taken by the Hawks as a mature age player with selection 66 in the 2010 National Draft.

He missed out on selection when he was an 18 year old because of a mixture of injury and form troubles that restricted his ability to impress recruiters.

Now, he’s one of Hawthorn’s barometers, with his pressure a key characteristic in Hawthorn’s game style.

He made his debut in Round 7, 2011 against Port Adelaide and played 20 matches in his debut year including all three of Hawthorn’s finals in that year.

Despite the successful start to his career, where he burst onto the scene as a pacey small forward, Puopolo says he didn’t expect to make an immediate impact because at the time, the Hawks had depth of talent.

“I didn’t think I was going to make it here, you’re never sure how your career is going to go,” he told hawthornfc.com.au

“I’m really happy to play at a good club in Hawthorn and knocking up 50 is a nice little milestone.

“I never did (expect it), Hawthorn was a pretty good side when I arrived and we’ve played finals in every year that I’ve been here.

“I always look back and think ‘geez our side is a very good side’ and I’m so glad to be part of it and playing my role.”

He considers himself lucky to have realised his dream of playing in the AFL.

“I do, I really do (consider myself lucky),” Puopolo said.

“I missed the boat and I was lucky enough to get picked up later.

“It means a lot. It’s always been my dream to play AFL and play at a good club like Hawthorn, there’s nothing better.”

Puopolo has provided fans with many great highlights in his short career to date, with his speed and pressure allowing him to tackle disposses opposition players.

Undoubtedly, his debut game against the Power is a career highlight for the 25 year old but he says playing in the 20120 Grand Final is a highlight despite the result.

He hopes though, 2013 will bring about a different fate for the Hawks.

“Playing in the Grand Final, even though we didn’t get the outcome we wanted, just being part of it (was a great experience),” he said.

“Hopefully we can make amends this year and get one, that’s our plan this year.”