RYAN Burton has endured a baptism of fire in his first three games of AFL football.

After playing forward against North Melbourne and West Coast, the first-year player was thrown into defence against the Magpies and looked right at home.

The 19-year-old told hawthornfc.com.au after the Hawks’ win over Collingwood the move was a directive from the coaches, who were looking for someone to fill the role of the injured Ben Stratton.

“With Stratton going down a couple of weeks ago we’ve been trying a few different players (down back) and the coaches wanted to try me today,” he said.

“I’ve played a bit of backline down at Box Hill and I managed to go alright so I was pretty happy with how I went down there and hopefully the coaches were as well.”

Burton finished with 15 disposals and five marks in the Hawthorn’s thrilling win over the Pies, but managed to hold his own and win one-on-one contests at crucial times.

His efforts helped the Hawks get home in another close victory this season, one which secured them a top four finish on the ladder and a massive qualifying final clash against Geelong in ten days' time.

The seventh Hawk to debut this season, Burton is still focussed on cementing his place in the team despite the season reaching its climax.

“I’m happy that I’m getting a run each week now and I’m trying to cement my spot as best I can, but we’re really happy with the win,” he said.

“Close finishes make playing a bit nerve wracking, especially sitting on the bench, but really glad we secured third spot on the ladder.”

As far as a football education goes, you couldn’t ask for better teachers than the likes of Luke Hodge, Sam Mitchell, Jordan Lewis and Shaun Burgoyne.

The chance to play alongside such decorated players is still a thrill for Burton, despite being nearly 12 months into his time at Waverley.

“I’m loving it. I think it’s probably sinking in a bit more now that I’m a Hawthorn player and I get to spend each day with some greats of the game and I’m loving every minute of it.”