Paul Puopolo signs up for 2022 country footy experience with Virginia Football Club
Three-time AFL premiership player and former Norwood gun Paul Puopolo has signed for a new club, and his choice may come as a surprise.
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After calling time on his career at Norwood, AFL premiership player Paul Puopolo has signed with the Virginia Football Club of the Adelaide Plains Football League for season 2022.
The small forward, who played five league seasons for Norwood in the SANFL and was part of Hawthorn’s run of three straight AFL premierships from 2013-2015, was captivated by the country footy lifestyle the Rams offered.
“One of my mates from work, Taylor, his young lad plays in their under-17s and they got me to head down for a pep talk before the grand final,” Puopolo said.
“They welcomed me with open arms and just the feel and laid-back atmosphere, it’s something I want to experience.
“People live and breathe footy in the country. They make a day of it and I just want to be a part of that.”
Puopolo experienced a disappointing end to his romantic return to Norwood from the AFL this year, suffering injury at the tail-end of the season and returning for the club’s semi-final loss against South Adelaide.
The fan favourite thought about going for another shot at an SANFL premiership with the Redlegs again in 2022 but the commitment was too much.
“SANFL is a big commitment and I’m getting older with a wife and two daughters now so I’m really looking to spend more time with the family,” Puopolo said.
“I didn’t want to put Norwood in the position where I could only train once or twice a week and I also saw a lot of great young kids coming through there. I don’t want to take their spot if I can’t give it 100 per cent.”
Virginia finished sixth on the APFL ladder this year, focusing more on bringing young players through the system.
Puopolo said his experience at AFL and SANFL level can be a major boost for the club and its A grade.
“Obviously I want to experience premierships again and I think I can provide that boost to get the club there,” he said.
“I want to help the club develop too, they’ve got a lot of young kids coming through the ranks.
“I’m never afraid to speak up and give pointers and I enjoy the role of giving guidance so I’m looking forward to the experience.”
Puopolo and the club will get back on the park for pre-season through December.
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