The former Shepparton Swans live wire was given a dose of good news earlier this week, signing a one-year contract extension with the Shinboners until the end of the 2026 AFL season.
Banch, a Yarrawonga product and two-season Swan between 2022-23, was snapped up by the Kangaroos at pick two in the 2025 AFL Mid-Season Rookie Draft following a breakout 2024 season in the VFL for Werribee.
The 22-year-old made his AFL debut in round 19 against Sydney at the SCG, going on to make three more appearances under Alastair Clarkson in a campaign where North Melbourne finished 16th.
The ex-Swan battled a rib injury that sidelined him for two matches, but returned to kick his first career goal in the last game of the season.
However, in such a short space of time, Banch made sure to make his mark.
The crafty small forward was nominated for the AFL Mark of the Year for his spectacular grab against St Kilda in round 21, and though the Alex Jesaulenko Medal eventually went to Western Bulldogs’ Sam Darcy, it did no damage to Banch’s rep.
With his signature locked in for another year alongside ruckman Callum Coleman-Jones, North Melbourne’s head of football talent Brady Rawlings was rapt to welcome Banch back to Arden St.
“Zac has been a fantastic addition to our forward line,” he said.
“He's shown great promise in his short time with us, and we believe his clean skills and pressure are valuable assets.”
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