When Brandon Matera runs out for Gold Coast this Saturday afternoon against Hawthorn, he will become just the sixth player to record 100 games for the SUNS.

Michael Rischitelli, Tom Lynch, Jarrod Harbrow and foundation SUN Matt Shaw reached the milestone in 2016. Former captain Gary Ablett hit the same mark earlier this season.

Having debuted in the club’s inaugural AFL match during the 2011 season, the milestone has been a long time coming for the West Australian.

Matera comes from strong football pedigree, with his father Wally and uncles Peter and Phil all playing for West Coast, and his talent is obvious.

The 25-year-old kicked five goals in the SUNS’ first every victory, however never really cemented his place in the senior team.

That has all changed this year, with Matera’s improved work ethic allowing him to hit career-best form, according to coach Rodney Eade.

Within two weeks of coming into the senior team this season, the crafty small forward recorded career-highs for goals (six) and disposals (29) and has shown greater consistency.

Matera has booted 19 goals this season and sits second on the SUNS goal kicking leaderboard behind captain Tom Lynch.

However, his influence on games is growing beyond just hitting the scoreboard, as he averages a career high 18.1 disposals and 5.5 marks per game, a by-product of the hard work he is putting in on the training track and on game day.

The West Australian’s improved work rate is being rewarded with game time and he is clearly relishing playing his role for the team.

With his career best six goal haul coming against Hawthorn earlier this season, Matera will be hoping to replicate his form from that game when he runs out onto the MCG on Saturday afternoon.