Youngster Colby McKercher led the way as North Melbourne's first-to-fourth-year players launched into their pre-season on Monday, topping the pack in the 2km time trial.

Pick 2 from the 2023 National Draft, McKercher showcased the pace that made him such an eye-catching prospect in his debut season for the Kangaroos, when he averaged 23.8 touches across 16 appearances across half-back.

McKercher, 19, recorded a personal best, finishing ahead of versatile tall Finnbar Maley, followed by Bailey Scott and Tom Powell.

A contingent of seasoned Roos also joined the group for their first pre-season session.

Maley went untried at AFL level last season but impressed as a ruck-forward over 18 VFL games, with his high-flying marking catching plenty of attention.

Young defender Jackson Archer, who had a breakout season in 2024, rounded out the top five.

Time trial top 10

1. Colby McKercher
2. Finnbar Maley
3. Bailey Scott
4. Tom Powell
5. Jackson Archer
6. Will Phillips
7. Harry Sheezel
8. Miller Bergman
9. Eddie Ford
10. Robert Hansen jnr