North’s latest No.10 reaches 200 games

By ZAC MILBANK

Nothing has given North Adelaide captain Alex Spina more pride than the opportunity to wear the No.10 guernsey in honour of club legend Barrie Robran.

And now Spina is set to join the Roosters’ beloved champion in reaching his 200-game milestone when North faces Central District at X Convenience Oval on Saturday.

Speaking on SANFL Radio, the 30-year-old said the recent passing of Barrie had been tough for the senior players in the team who knew him well while it’s also been important to educate the younger players at Prospect about his legacy.

This is why playing at North Adelaide has meant so much to Spina, who first arrived in the U13 special squad before working his way up the Roosters’ junior grades before landing on the Crows’ rookie list for 2014.

In an interesting twist, Spina made his Hostplus SANFL League debut for the Crows against North at Prospect in Round 1 of 2014.

He spent a season at West Lakes before returning to Prospect to play his first League game for the Roosters in Round 1 of 2015, against Adelaide.

Originally a half-forward who would push into the midfield, Spina first played in defence in his debut League match. By the time the 2016 season rolled around, he had found himself a regular spot such was the way he read the ball with ease whilst also providing great rebound.

Revealing that his body is in better shape than this time last year, Spina is keen to play on in 2026 at a minimum as he seeks to extend his career at Menzies Crescent for as long as possible.

Providing great leadership on and off the field for North’s emerging youngsters, Spina is keen to work closely with the new coach appointed for next season.