25 years ago, North Melbourne unearthed one of the biggest steals in draft history.

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With the Roos’ fourth pick of the night in 1995, and the 47^th overall, Brent Harvey’s name was read out.

Standing at just 168 centimetres when drafted, there were doubts about Harvey’s ability to make an impact in the AFL.

But what he lacked in height, he more than made up for with his speed, skill and desire.

“Boomer” played one game in his debut season of 1996, but became a mainstay in the side the following year, playing 17 games. 

By 1999, the competition had begun to truly take notice of Harvey’s skill, as he won the EJ Whitten Medal following the State of Origin clash with South Australia.

Later that year, he claimed his first premiership medal, collecting 21 disposals as the Roos defeated Carlton.

A five-time Syd Barker Medallist (2003, 2005, 2007, 2008, 2010), and four time All Australian (2000, 2005, 2007, 2008), Harvey’s record is unparalleled for North Melbourne, and one of the best in the AFL. 

He accumulated 191 Brownlow Medal votes across his career, finishing runner-up to Jimmy Bartel in 2007. 

In 2016, Harvey broke Michael Tuck’s VFL/AFL games-record, and finished on 432 games, booting 518 goals. 

Harvey’s transformation from a small but talented junior to a great of the game has paved the way for many smaller draftees since.