Former Yarrawonga Pigeon Zac Banch has signed a one-year contract extension at North Melbourne Football Club, committing to the club for the 2026 season.
Banch's first few months at Arden Street have been a whirlwind, with four games, a first goal at AFL level, a rib injury, and a Mark of the Year nomination crammed into half a football season.
The premiership-winning Werribee Tiger has worked hard for his big chance at the top level since being taken with the second pick in the 2025 season's mid-season rookie draft.
Banch has shown his clean and crafty skills as a small forward as well as his relentless work ethic, playing three games before a rib injury sidelined him for two matches.
He returned for the final game of the season, where he kicked his first career goal to cap off his debut year.
His impact was also recognised with a Mark of the Year nomination for a courageous grab against St Kilda in Round 21.
"Zac has been a fantastic addition to our forward line,” North Melbourne’s head of football talent Brady Rawlings said