When the Brisbane Lions delisted Andrew Raines at the end of last season, it appeared that the seasoned midfielder’s time in the AFL had come to an end.
 
After 123 games across ten years at Richmond and Brisbane, Raines found himself in a position where he could still contribute at the top level, but the club where he was at was building for its future through the pursuit of youth.
 
As a product of the Gold Coast, Raines’ football journey returned to where it all started a decade earlier when the Gold Coast SUNS provided him with a lifeline via last December’s rookie draft.
 
Now, less than six months into his time at a third club, Raines has revealed that he didn’t give up hope on continuing his career. With his body sound and his mind more than prepared for the day-to-day grind of AFL football, the son of a Richmond champion was confident he could make a contribution at Metricon Stadium.
 
“I always believed. You’ve got to believe in yourself,” Raines told reporters ahead of his maiden appearance in SUNS colours against Adelaide.
 
“I was fortunate enough too that Brisbane were very honest to me up front last year. They said that I wouldn’t be going forward with them probably midway through the season.
 
“So that gave me a chance to go back to reserve level and really enjoy my football and just sort of make a decision within that ten-week period.
 
“And I made the decision based on my body feeling right and with some discussions with the SUNS.
 
“I did believe I could still (compete at AFL level), otherwise I wouldn’t have put my name in the draft.”
 
With Rodney Eade’s side heavily depleted through injury and suspension, Raines’ inclusion comes at a crucial time for the Gold Coast SUNS who are severely undermanned when it comes to experience.
 
Against Adelaide on Saturday night, Raines will be the third most experienced player in red and gold tapestry – behind only Michael Rischitelli and Jarrod Harbrow. Quite an anomaly for someone who’s never previously worn the jumper at senior level. But a major plus for the SUNS who desperately need wise, older heads to help steer the ship.