RUCKMAN Paddy Ryder will join the 200-game club this weekend when the Power plays Collingwood at the MCG.

The milestone marks a major achievement for the big man after spending an entire season on the sidelines in 2016, serving a sanction over the Essendon supplements saga.

It’s been quite the journey for Ryder, who says his 200th game couldn’t have come at a better time.

“After coming back off last year, to be able to come back and turn myself into a consistent player for the football club has been great," he said.

“That’s what I always strive for as a football player and I’m achieving that this year.”

After finding a new home at Port Adelaide, Ryder has entered season 2017 with a more defined role in the ruck and a fresh appreciation of footy, giving way to some career best form.

Consistently rated among the league’s best ruckmen; his best showing was against West Coast in Round 7 with 42 hitouts, 7 marks, 20 disposals and a goal.

And according to the versatile milestone man, he’s a ruckman first and foremost.

“Kenny gave me the word last year. Once he told me that, it drove me to get to the position where I am today,” Ryder said.

“I think that’s a big part of why I’m playing good football this year…that’s my role in the team. “I’ve always believed that’s the best role for myself and it’s showing this year.”

Ryder attributes much of his 200-game success to the ongoing support of the people around him, including his original club, Essendon.

“It’s mixed emotions, but I spent nine years there [Essendon] and a lot of my time there made me who I am today,” Ryder said.

“All the friendships, all the people you meet along the way…that’s the most important thing that I get out of my footy.

“I went through some years before I got to Port Adelaide which were hard and it certainly took a big toll on me and my family…I’m just really happy to be able to come back out of that and be a stronger person.

“I don’t look back at it with anything negative.”

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