Jackson Archer, the son of North Melbourne legend Glenn, will have the opportunity to make his own history at Arden St after the Kangaroos selected him with pick No.59 at Thursday night’s NAB AFL Draft.
A medium-sized defender, Archer joins the Roos as a father-son prospect.
Club legend Glenn Archer played 311 games for the Kangaroos, including the 1996 and ‘99 premierships, and is one of the most revered names in North’s history. He was the 1996 Norm Smith Medallist as well a three-time All-Australian defender and Shinboner of the Century.
Although a lankier build to his father at 187cm and 70kg, Jackson Archer is quickly forging his own reputation for his courageous, hard-nosed style of play.
"When you see him play you know straight away whose son he is," North Melbourne GM Football Brady Rawlings said ahead of the draft. "He’s aggressive and highly competitive – it’s a good foundation to build on in today’s footy."
The 18-year-old played his junior football at Park Orchards Sharks before coming through the Northern Knights NAB League program, representing North’s VFL side against Southport in 2021.
"Jackson has been part of our Father Son Academy for many years, and to bring in the son of a club legend is always an exciting time," Kangaroos National Recruiting Manager Mark Finnigan said.
"He is one of the most competitive and courageous players in this year’s draft. He has a never-say-die attitude towards his footy which we can’t wait to see in North Melbourne colours.
"Unfortunately, like most Victorian kids, he has missed a lot of footy through Covid in the last two seasons. We feel in a professional environment, Jackson will continue to develop to play a role in our back half."
