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North Melbourne’s first selection in the 2007 National Draft, Robbie Tarrant has been touted as one of the future stars of the club.

The 196cm athletic forward and brother of Chris, was struck down by a shoulder injury early in the 2008 season playing for North Ballarat, but fought back to be an emergency in the Roosters’ Grand Final win against Port Melbourne.

Tarrant looked like he was hitting peak fitness but again succumbed to a shoulder injury during pre-season and underwent surgery again in preparation for 2009.

The 20 year-old took part in much of the pre-season and was making positive steps to his return playing for Werribee in practice matches leading up to the regular season before injury again halted his progress.

Frustrated with continually spending time on the sidelines, Tarrant worked hard in his rehabilitation and eventually made his return for the Tigers reserves side and booted three goals in round nine. But after falling awkwardly during his return match, Tarrant was forced to undergo his fourth shoulder reconstruction in three years. The injury forced him out for the remainder of the season.

At the end of the 2009 season, Tarrant was re-signed until the end of 2011 despite having not played a game since being drafted, a clear sign of the former Bendigo Pioneers' potential.

Darren Crocker 2009 review:
Like Jesse Smith, we just need to get his body right. He's a first-round draft pick and we haven't been able to see him at all. Hopefully that can all be behind him now. He's signed up for another two years so the club has put a lot faith in Robbie.

Draft history: 2007 NAB AFL Draft 1st round selection (North Melbourne) No. 15 overall.

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