Geelong forward Tom Hawkins has paid tribute to former teammate James Kelly on the eve of his 300^th game.

Kelly played 273 games with the Cats, including the 2009 and 2011 premierships with Hawkins, as well as the 2007 flag without. 

The 33-year-old will reach the 300 game milestone against his former club on Saturday night and Hawkins says he is proud to have played alongside the man they call ‘Pops’.

“It’s very special for him and for the Geelong Football Club that he gets to play his 300^th game in the circumstance he does,” Hawkins said.

“He’s been a role model of our footy club – a super player. He’s got a great balance between knowing when to work hard and when to have fun. 

He’s a fierce competitor and that’s what I always loved about Kel.”

I’ve always admired Kel when he was at Geelong and I’ve certainly admired what he’s been able to do late in his career, playing consistent footy at Essendon.”

I’m certainly proud to say that I played with him.” 

Kelly and Hawkins will renew acquaintances on Saturday night at the MCG as part of the Powercor Country Festival.