Charlie Comben

North Melbourne tall lands new deal

The 22-year-old was already contracted for next year.

Published by
Mitch Keating

North Melbourne tall Charlie Comben has signed a new contract extension to remain at Arden Street until the end of the 2027 season.

The 22-year-old, who was already signed until the end of next year, has added two years to his contract to further extend his tenure in the blue and white.

“We're excited to have Charlie recommit to the club for a further two seasons,” North Melbourne talent boss Brady Rawlings said in a club statement.

“He is as competitive and resilient as they come and has a lot of potential with his aerial strength.

“The way he has been able to transition into defence has been a real positive for the club this season, and we look forward to watching him take his game even further over the next few years.”

Comben's career to date with North Melbourne has not been smooth sailing, having suffered a fracture in his back and a stress fracture in his leg in his early years at the club before a season-ending ankle injury riddled his 2023 campaign.

ADELAIDE, AUSTRALIA - APRIL 15: Charlie Comben of the Kangaroos kicks the ball during the 2023 AFL Round 05 match between the Brisbane Lions and the North Melbourne Kangaroos at Adelaide Hills on April 15, 2023 in Adelaide, Australia. (Photo by Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images)

The versatile key position talent returned to the senior side in Round 4 and has played every game since to bring his career tally to 20 matches.

Drafted as a ruck-forward, Comben has flourished in a new role in defence under coach Alastair Clarkson this year.

The Roos hold long-term plans to have Comben return to the front third eventually in his career, with his switch to the backline set to aid his development as a 199cm player.

His re-signing adds to a positive window of retention for the Roos, who have locked away  Kallan Dawson (2025), Tom Powell (2026), Harry Sheezel (2030) and Tristan Xerri (2029) in 2024 already.

Published by
Mitch Keating