Andrew Raines has been dealt his fair share of pain throughout his AFL journey.

An unfortunate spate of injuries limited Raines to just 56 games in six seasons with Richmond from 2004-2009, and left him wondering whether his career was destined be just another ‘hard luck’ story.  

“Everyone goes through a time in their career where you’re faced with challenges – whether that’s form or injuries,” Raines revealed in an exclusive interview with LIONS TV.

“Mine was some massive injuries I had early days. I thought if I keep ending up in hospital and having operations, that my time could go away.

“But luckily Brisbane showed the faith in me and offered me a good deal to come up here.”

Raines was traded back home to Queensland at the end of 2009, and has since gone on to play in 54 of a possible 79 games in three and a half seasons with the Lions.

He will line-up for his 55th match for the Club against Gold Coast this Saturday at the Gabba, which is just one short of his total at the Tigers.

Even in the face of adversity, the 27-year-old has maintained a strong sense of self-belief and determination to succeed at the highest level.

“Talent doesn’t wash away. You have to believe that you belong out there,” Raines said.

He is not only enjoying his time on the field, but is also passionate about promoting the code in a non-traditional AFL State.

“I’m a passionate Queenslander. I love playing football up here. I love the local crowd,” he said.

“To try and help promote the game is obviously pretty close to me because I remember growing up in a tough football environment.”