LUKE Hodge could be forgiven for not knowing where to go when he runs on to the Gabba for the first time in his new colours on Saturday night.
It's been 10 years since the four-time premiership star has graced the turf of his new home ground.
Hawthorn defeated Brisbane in 2008 in a memorable shootout that saw Lance Franklin (eight) and Daniel Bradshaw (seven) combine for 15 goals.
Hodge hasn't been back since.
On Saturday he'll come up against great mate Jordan Lewis as both the Lions and Melbourne look to reverse first-round losses.
"I haven't played here since 2008 so I've had a fairly big break from playing here," Hodge joked.
"Once we get it full of Lions supporters hopefully it's nice and loud and we play some good footy against Melbourne."
Hodge will get his first peek at the Gabba on Thursday when the Lions get their first run on the ground following the completion of the cricket season.
He said playing Lewis for the second time – Hawthorn defeated Melbourne by three points last year – would still be strange.
"It was weird last year playing against him. I might have to ask him for a few tips on it (playing for a new team) this week," Hodge said.
"Lewy's been a really good mate for a long time and hopefully we beat them on the weekend."
The Lions will likely have to play without Daniel Rich who is getting scanned for an ankle injury on Monday afternoon.
The club is hopeful of a favourable outcome but is preparing to be without their half-back for up to a month.
Despite said despite the 25-point loss to St Kilda at the weekend, there was plenty to work with.
"The way we got the ball out of stoppages was really good, it was just the (lack of) polish," Hodge said.
"I think that comes with experience and as we play more games together, it's understanding where each other moves to and strengths and weaknesses.
"A few turnovers gave them opportunities to score, which they capitalised on.
"That's something for us to work on. It's round one and we've got a group that's eager to listen."
