After being selected with pick two in the 2002 National Draft, Wells had a huge weight of expectation on his shoulders in the early part of his career but has been able to play a significant role through the midfield since his debut in 2003.

At the start of 2008, Wells was urged by his coach Dean Laidley to use his pace to challenge the opposition which resulted in him taking his game to a new level. The exciting midfielder averaged 22 possessions a game throughout 2008 and was instrumental in North Melbourne’s strong late season form.

He finished sixth in the Syd Barker Medal and represented Australian in the International Rules series against Ireland.

A dominant pre-season was followed by a strong start to 2009, but a recurring groin injury frustrated the former first round pick for most of the season, and apart from some good games against Port Adelaide and Brisbane, Wells had a season he'd rather forget.

After missing seven matches following the round 11 loss to St Kilda, Wells eventually made his return via the VFL and racked up 17 possessions in a half of football. But the midfielder felt his speed and mobility were far from where they needed to be and ended his season prematurely in a bid to be ready for 2010.

Draft history: 2002 National AFL Draft 1st round selection (North Melbourne) No. 2 overall on-traded by Richmond to Adelaide for Wayne Carey.
First game for North Melbourne: Round 1, 2003 v St Kilda
Player honours: 2nd best and fairest 2006 (equal), International Rules Series 2003, 2008; NAB AFL Rising Star nominee 2003.
Brownlow Medal: 25 career votes

Player sponsors: Julie Harris, Playground Saturdays – Seven Nightclub – Adrian Charlot, Luca Construct, Dion Guant

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