For many of the hundreds of fans at Arden Street, the sight of footy being played at the club’s traditional home brought back amazing memories.
1985 was the last time the venue hosted a match for points, so when the North Melbourne VFL team ran out on Saturday it was a significant moment in the club’s history.
How Arden Street has changed since ’85; the old grandstands replaced with a state-of-the-art facility comprising new coaches’ boxes, media facilities and player interchange benches.
That suburban footy feel hasn’t changed though, with fans lining the fences and hill to catch a glimpse of the Roos’ emerging stars in action.
Even a club legend wasn’t going to miss this; Keith Greig, who played his 290th game at Arden Street back on August 17, 1985, returning to witness the transformation.
And the two-time Brownlow Medalist would have been delighted with what he saw … the likes of Paul Ahern, Taylor Garner and Aaron Hall dominating in an impressive victory over Richmond.
Earlier in the day the Melbourne Uni VFLW team fell just short against Richmond, despite a brilliant display from Jas Garner (22 disposals, 3 goals) and strong performances from the eight North Melbourne Tasmanian Kangaroos' players in action.
The amazing transformation of the Arden Street facility wouldn't have been possible without the generous donations from the club's outstanding members and supporters, who raised $1.3 million for the redevelopment in 2018.