From kicking the match-winning goal in the club’s first AFL victory to becoming a regular feature in Guy McKenna’s sizzling midfield, Luke Russell has fought hard to build a name for himself on the Gold Coast.

The Tassie workhorse is in line to become the twelfth player to celebrate 50 games with the Gold Coast SUNS, making his senior debut in round four of the team’s inaugural season against Melbourne at the Gabba.

Ironically, he was also one of twelve 17-year-olds to be swept up by the SUNS in their maiden VFL season, playing alongside the likes of Matt Shaw, Brandon Matera and Trent McKenzie against seasoned AFL campaigners.

Since then, he has notched 49 appearances at the elite level, and in 2013 became the ultimate swingman, fulfilling roles as a forward, defender and wingman.

While the club’s historic victories over Collingwood, Richmond and North Melbourne rank high on his most prized memories at the club, Russell says it will be hard to forget the first time he sang the team song, in the change rooms of AAMI Stadium.

“That is something I remember clearly,” Russell told The Gold Coast Bulletin.

“It has stuck with me since I did it and I doubt if I will ever forget that moment.”

On the eve of his first milestone match, Russell recalls tougher days on the Gold Coast and his early struggles of living away from home in his pursuit of an AFL career.

But the 21-year-old now says he feels right at home on the glitter strip.

“Now to get to 50 games with the SUNS means a lot to me.

“I was pretty homesick in my first season up here and I found it pretty tough. I’ve had a few ups and downs but overall I have really enjoyed it and I’ve learned a lot.”