North Melbourne has locked away a genuine rising star with Tarryn Thomas signing a contract extension.
The super talented 19-year-old has put pen to paper on a new deal until at least the end of 2022.
“I’m really excited about the future with North,” Thomas told North Media.
“I love what this club stands for and what it’s all about, and I can’t wait to be part of what’s to come. We have a great group of young players coming through.”
Thomas entered the league after being taken with pick 8 in the 2018 National Draft, having been a part of North’s Next Generation Academy.
“I’ve really been a part of the club for a few years through the academy, so when I started I was really comfortable and felt like part of the team straight away,” he said.
“I’ve loved my first year and have learnt so much. I’m looking forward to getting a full pre-season in and improving next year.”
Thomas made his debut in Round 2, and picked up a Rising Star nomination in Round 12 after he kicked two goals against the Suns and set up teammates for another two, as well as finishing with 12 disposals at 75 per cent efficiency, 10 contested possessions, three inside 50s and two clearances.
“He’s a star, he’s a beauty,” former Brisbane champion Jonathan Brown said on Fox Footy’s On The Couch after the nomination was announced.
He has played 19 games, is averaging 12 disposals and has kicked 16 goals.
Earlier this season, North coach Rhyce Shaw said Thomas’s talent was undeniable.
“I don’t think I’ve seen a cleaner pair of hands in a first-year player than the ones Tarryn Thomas has,” Shaw commented.
“His ability to take the ball first time, absorb pressure and then create for his teammates is second to none.
“I think Tarryn could play anywhere, literally anywhere. But, I do think he could end up in the midfield when his body matures a bit more.”
From North Launceston, where he won a flag playing in the senior side, Thomas grew up in New South Wales where he played rugby league, making the switch to Australian Football when he moved to Tasmania aged 12.
Thomas won the Hunter Harrison Medal as player of the Under-18 Academy Series, which is made up of Sydney, Gold Coast, Brisbane and GWS Academies, as well as Northern Territory and Tasmania.
“We have a lot of young guys showing what they’re capable of like Jy (Simpkin), Cam (Zurhaar), Larks (Nick Larkey), Curtis (Taylor) and Bailey (Scott),” Thomas added.
“We’re all looking forward to playing more games together.”
Take a tour of North Melbourne with Tarryn Thomas ⚪️
— North Melbourne (@NMFCOfficial) August 20, 2019
Wait for it... @Canterbury_Aus #North150 pic.twitter.com/2Lr5YfXoFk