16. Ben Brown
Wrote about him in my 2015 favourites, and there was no way I could keep him off the list this season either. North's leading goal kicker in 2016 and in the top 20 for the season in the AFL. He stood up very well in the absence of Waite, and his importance was constantly highlighted throughout the season. While we are unsure about Jarrad Waite's future, that of Ben Brown is certain - a massive presence in North's forward line in 2017. Exciting stuff for the young man, who has cemented himself as a crucial player at North.
15. St Kilda and Adelaide FC
The actions taken by these two football clubs in 2016 were simply all class. Let's start with St Kilda - hit with a double whammy in Round 7 (Drew's 300th) and Round 19 (Boomer's 427th). The actions taken were outstanding. A St Kilda home game in round 7, and it was all about Drew Petrie. Congratulatory announcements all pre-game and made it very well known it was the great man's 300th. Round 19 was even better, honouring Boomer on the club's banner. Don't forget guard of honour at the end of each game - St Kilda did it so well and were so professional. It was impressive.
Adelaide were equally impressive at the end of the Elimination Final. A guard of honour for Boomer, Drew, Spud and Dal in their final game at North. The entire ground erupted in applause and there were few dry eyes amongst fans. Even in a victory, Adelaide passed over the post-game attention. It was quite a sight and just incredible sportsmanship from both clubs.
14. Round 11 v Richmond
It's hard to believe these two clubs faced off in an Elimination Final just 12 months ago. Don't forget; Richmond sitting in 5th and North in 8th. The Friday night special in Hobart was probably North's most complete performance of the season. Demolished Richmond in just about every area of the ground and walked away 70 point victors. Also did it without Todd Goldstein, and while Maj was beaten in the ruck, he still had an influence on the game with 10 possessions, 5 tackles and a goal. Captain Swallow was at his inspiring best - an outstanding 19 contested possessions and 10 clearances highlighting his game. Boomer and Wells also put in massive performances - it was a really interesting comparison of where these two sides are at.
13. Boomer
I mean, what can you even say about this man that hasn't been said before? He's a legend of North Melbourne, and after 2016 he'll go down as a legend of the game. In 2016, he took over the AFL games record and he also reached 500 career goals (the third Roo to do so, and following his 512th goal, moved into 2nd on the all-time goal kicking table at North). He just keeps getting better. Best on ground multiple times this season; was the fire starter in the round 1 revival against Adelaide and his 6 goals against Melbourne was a career high for the superstar. As his time at North Melbourne has come to a heartbreaking end, Boomer carried himself like a true professional and was all class until the very end (as where his teammates Drew, Spud and Dal). There is so much love for him, and his legacy will live on throughout this football club for centuries to come.
12. Ryan Clarke
Really like this kid. Has a great attitude and can play. Clarke made his debut against West Coast in Round 16, after he was a late inclusion for the ill Nick Dal Santo. He has become a major talking point amongst Roo fans ever since. His 6 games in 2016 was highlighted by his performance in round 18, where he received a Rising Star nomination. His 27 touches, in particular an outstanding 11 possessions in the final quarter were a stand out. Clarke's nomination came in just his third AFL game, and he is just the 3rd Roo since 2010 to win a rising star nomination. He was probably stiff to miss the final 22 in Adelaide for week one of the finals, but he has a bright future ahead of him.
11. Jack Ziebell in the Elimination Final
North's finals campaign was a forgettable one in 2016, and while they reached new heights in 2014 and 2015, we just couldn't get the fire going against the Crows. Despite a competitive first half from the Roos, Adelaide took it to the next level and as we hit three quarter time, the end was staring in our faces. If there was something to take from that game, however, it was Jack Ziebell. He was inspiring and a driving force for the Roos over the four quarters. He stood up as a leader and really had an impact. Will be the next Captain of North Melbourne, it is just a matter of when. He is fearless and really lifted in a time of need.
10. Mason Wood
We've seen bits and pieces of Mason over the past couple of seasons, but in 2016 he really presented himself as the future of this club. Too many good things to say about this young man. Starting with his composure against St Kilda in round 7 - firstly, his game saving tackle. 30 seconds on the clock, North up by one point and lays a tackle on St Kilda's Jack Newness who was pinned for holding the ball. Then, under enormous pressure and a ticking countdown clock, Mase took his full 30 seconds and finished off the game with a goal. He kicked 12 goals in his 8 games and despite his season ending injury, we had all seen enough to know his re-signing was crucial... and re-sign he did. Four seasons at North, seeing him a Roo until the end of 2020; the club said it was never in doubt. His impact in seasons to come also a sure thing.
9. Round 6 v Western Bulldogs
It was first vs second on the ladder and the game lived up to all expectations. North got on top of the Dogs by 16 points and Jarrad Waite proved the difference. 7 marks and 4 goals to his name, Waite stood up when North needed a spark. Etihad was filled with intensity you could cut it with a knife. Swallow and Cunnington were on fire with 14 tackles each and Wells was important with 27 possessions. North remained in top spot, and it was the biggest statement they made in 2016.
8. Round 1 v Adelaide
I wrote about this game earlier in the season and I labelled it our best win for the year. Still stick by that 100%. North's first round one victory in seven years and it was a good one too. Come from behind victory, with a bit of grit and a bit of fight. The third quarter was the difference, as North booted 7 goals to 4 - set themselves for the big finish. Everyone had an influence - Boomer in particular with 3 goals in that big third quarter, and Daniel Wells was back and better than ever for the Roos. The only unfortunate thing is the best game came in round one. Hope to see more of this next season.
7. Final Series #3
North made it for the third consecutive season, something they haven't achieved since the days of Dennis Pagan (North played finals from 1993-2000 and have not featured in more than two consecutive finals up until 2014-2016). It's definitely an achievement and it's been lost in all of second half drama. Again, I do understand that the expectations were't quite met, but the hard work was done early. If only premierships were won in June....
6. Jamie MacMillan
Cannot speak highly enough of JMac. Think I've mentioned his name about 56 times throughout the season and I just can't stop. He's had such a good year and is finally getting the recognition he deserves. Along with Robbie Tarrant, he's been the most consistent performer all season and has done plenty of good things. He joined the leadership group last season, and has thrived in the position ever since. Named one of the most underrated Roos last season and making a name for himself in 2016. On the rise once more and expect a big 2017.
5. Majak's Mark
Majak has had a really important season and it's probably secured his future at North. In the absence of Todd Goldstein in Tasmania, and more recently the loss of Jarrad Waite through injury, Daw has been able to shine a light on season 2016. He's getting better every time you see him and once reaching his full potential, he can become a star of the game. But his 2016 has been about one moment in particular. Majak clunked his massive grab with a couple minutes to play in the 3rd quarter against Collingwood in round 18. I jumped out of my seat and just screamed 'THAT IS THE MARK OF THE YEAR. THAT IS IT'. The 70+ year old Pies supporters thought I was crazy, but they didn't disagree. It was a big leap, and it fuelled us with some excitement that we were probably been missing. Majak made it to the 'Mark of the Year' finals (so he should) and would hope he walk away with the win. I don't need to say much more... the mark speaks for itself.
4. Robbie Tarrant
This was the story of the season. Robbie Tarrant has always battled with injury, however his re-birth as a defender has proven career-changing. Tarrant had an incredible year, playing all 23 games and shutting down some of the best forwards in the competition. North fans celebrated as the defender re-signed a four year deal with North Melbourne, putting an end to rumours he would walk from the club at seasons end. He earned himself an All Australian nomination is the squad of 40, and was incredibly stiff to not be named in the side. He's a hot favourite to take home to Syd Barker Medal, as North's best player for 2016.
3. Nine wins in a row
I mean, how can you forget the opening half of the year. 9 straight wins to record North's best start to a season in the clubs history. It's still a remarkable effort, despite what was to follow. North just found a way to win every game, no matter what position they put themselves in. That game in round 3 against Melbourne always sticks out in my mind as something that represented the old and the new North Melbourne. We found ourselves in a testing position but found a way to get the victory. It was hard not to get excited, I am sure even those who said 'they weren't sucked in by the brilliant start' were definitely feeling proud. It was a good 9 weeks and an honour to be part of it.
2. Game 426 and Game 427
It was a special fortnight for North Melbourne and Brent Harvey, who equalled Michael Tuck's AFL games record of 426 against Collingwood, and then went on to break it a week later, in game 427 and a win against St Kilda. The victories were a perfect way to honour the club legend, who had an influence in both games. North were on fire in game 426, running away 40 point winners. Despite the challenge from the Pies in the third quarter, the Roos had an answer for everything thrown at them. 4 goals in the final three and half minutes of play to really ice Boomer's cake. Game 427 was a scrappy affair, but North just got the job done. The lead did stretch out to 40 points at one stage, with late goals to St Kilda flattering the scoreline. Boomer collected 49 possessions over the two weeks, and celebrated his milestone in style.
1. Lindsay Thomas' post match interview
You know, I am sure this will come as a surprise sitting at #1. Brent Harvey's achievements this season were just incredible, but to me, this moment defined North Melbourne and 2016. Lindsay Thomas was probably the most influential player against Collingwood in round 18, but his best on ground performance came after the game. The way he conducted himself in that interview was nothing short of incredible. He is humble, he's a team player and he has a heart of gold - all of which shone through. After losing his uncle earlier that week, he paid his tributes to his family back home in the best possible fashion, kicking five goals. He was edging on emotion through the entire interview and he nailed it. Lindsay had a fantastic year, one his most complete and consistent over his career - but that interview took him to another level and just showed what football is really about. The humble man behind the competitive mask - he did it brilliantly.
I think the interview captures the club as a whole. Underrated, and maybe at times a little misunderstood. But underneath the on field niggle and competitive skin, we see warmth and love and embracing the club and passion. That just about summaries Lindsay Thomas, and North Melbourne and what a club it is to be a part of.
And there you have it. My 16 from 2016.
It's been a hell of a season, and there is so much to come and look forward to in preparation for 2017.
There's always plenty to discuss, and I'll be right here with you.
Go Roos,
Marnie
