Rampe goes from AFL puppy to big dog

Dane Rampe’s ascension from a small puppy to a big dog in the Sydney Swans set-up has been confirmed by a huge compliment from the club legend who previously wore the same number.

Rampe, who grew up little more more than a drop kick away from the SCG, has played every game in just his second season at AFL level.

He lines up against Hawthorn in Saturday’s grand final just two years after watching Sydney’s 2012 triumph over the same side from a mate’s place in Bondi.

“We were obviously on the sauce getting really excited and embracing the fact our team was in a grand final,” Rampe told AAP.

“It’s just a dream come true, to be on the other side.”

Among his growing fan club is Jude Bolton, the famed 325-game midfield warrior who wore Rampe’s No.24 jersey for many years before retiring at the end of last season.

“I’m so proud of Dane Rampe and the way he’s been able to perform,” Bolton said on Wednesday.

“I was really chuffed to be able to pass the jumper on to someone who has performed so well.

“He’s so consistent and trusted amongst the team. His ability to play on talls and smalls makes him so versatile. He’s an enormous player for this club.”

Rampe was looking forward to playing his part in trying to contain Hawthorn’s multi-faceted attack.

“Obviously they are one of the best offensive teams in the competition if not the best, so that’s our challenge this week,” Rampe said.

“Bring it on. If you want to be the best, you have to beat the best.”

Rampe cheerfully concedes there’s probably no player at the club who can match his long-term passion for the Swans.

“Initially there was a running joke going around that I was just (like) a little puppy when I first got here, because I was just so excited to be around the boys,” Rampe recalled.

“I was more like a supporter training with them I guess.

“To be able to be part of the team now and be mates with all the boys is pretty surreal really.”

He admits he still has plenty of Swans memorabilia at the family home, including jerseys signed by former captains Paul Kelly and Stuart Maxfield.

However, photos no longer adorn his bedroom walls.

“I took them all down once I got drafted, because I thought it was a little bit corny to be having them around when I’m actually playing,” he said.

“But Mum has still got them around somewhere.’

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