Ask Leigh a question on All Access Elevated from North Melbourne’s rookie list in 2001, Harding had an immediate impact. He booted 33 goals in 2002 and 33 the following year, quickly cementing a role in the side as a crumbing forward with outstanding pace. Harding struggled for consistency throughout the next three years and a knee injury kept him out for much of the 2007 season. He returned and played out the year for the North Ballarat Roosters in the VFL, and pushed hard for senior selection. 2008 was a defining year for Harding, his re-invention as a running back-man was a masterstroke. He averaged 15 possessions a game and snuck forward for 14 goals in the most consistent season of his career. After copping an injury in round 22, he bravely fought back to play in North Melbourne’s Elimination Final against Sydney. Dean Laidley gave Harding a role through the midfield in the early part of 2009 and he relished the chance to find more of the footy. A best on ground performance in round one against Melbourne set the tone for another strong season. Unfortunately, he missed the last four games with a significant hamstring injury. Darren Crocker 2009 review: He probably re-invented himself as a half-back but there were some really good signs with him going through the midfield this year. We were really happy with his spread from stoppages and [opposition] turnovers. He can really find some space working forward of the ball. As a midfielder, he was averaging a couple of goals a game which was really valuable. Time will tell whether he cements a spot in the midfield or whether he's going to be floating between the two roles.
Draft history: 2001 rookie elevation (North Melbourne)First game for North Melbourne: Round 17, 2001 v BrisbanePlayer honours: Leading goal kicker 2003Brownlow Medal: 6 career votesPlayer sponsors: Sara Gipton, Lusty Transport Equipment SolutionsBecome a North Melbourne fan on FacebookFollow North Melbourne on Twitter
Midfielder Leigh Harding is making a bold attempt to play again before the season winds up in three weeks time.Tuesday, August 11, 2009 - 3:02PM
Daniel Wells is a chance to play in the VFL this weekend, meaning his AFL return is imminentWednesday, August 05, 2009 - 11:44AM
At the half way point of the season the competition is hotting up in the race for the 2009 Syd Barker Medal.Monday, June 22, 2009 - 10:25AM
Ruckman David Hale and speedster Leigh Harding are in line to play against Essendon on Sunday after being cleared of serious damageMonday, April 13, 2009 - 2:28PM
Leigh Harding credits a knee reconstruction for his rebirth as a dynamic midfielder. Harding's transition looked to be a smooth one on Sunday when he picked up Monday, March 30, 2009 - 8:25AM
View all the highlights from the last match between North Melbourne and Port Adelaide, in Round 7 of this year.Thursday, August 27, 2009 - 12:56PM
Presented by Mazda 3, see exclusive interviews after the game with three of North Melbournes stars. Monday, April 06, 2009 - 3:33PM
North Melbourne has launched its 2009 Membership advertisement. Log on to kangaroos.com.au to view the ad. Saturday, April 04, 2009 - 3:02PM
See all the highlights from the Round 19, 2008 clash between North Melbourne and the Western Bulldogs. Wednesday, April 01, 2009 - 1:54PM
Matt Campbells run resulting in a Todd Goldstein goal and Lindsay Thomas goal against Geelong were the finals qualifiers in Part 4. Log on to kangaroos.com.au to vote on Part 5.Friday, September 26, 2008 - 10:22AM
Career statistics:
2009 photos:(click any photo to enlarge)
Fun Facts:Nickname: TurtleNumber on back as a youngster: Gary Ablett snr (5)Describe yourself in one word: SarcasticMost likely to succeed after football: Adan Simpson, he can talk a lot of crap and would be a good salesman. Likes to collect: Shot glasses from the places I've travelled to. First job: Greenskeeper Interests outside football: Cricket, golf and my personal training business The meal you cook best: Risotto Spend last $100 on: Nice dinner Four people to invite to dinner: Vince Lombardi, Will Ferrell, Jennifer Hawkins, Mike Tyson Favourite music: Anything Cruize Garlett sings Music that helps get in the zone before a game: Cruize Garlett's campfire collection.
Guernsey number: See every player to wear the number 39 guernsey throughout the history of the North Melbourne Football Club. Includes game and goal tallies, as well as profiles for selected players.Number 39 guernsey history
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