In a significant boost for the North Melbourne Kangaroos, star midfielder Luke Davies-Uniacke has officially signed a massive seven-year contract extension, ensuring he will remain with the club until at least the end of 2032. This decision comes just ahead of the Kangaroos' highly anticipated Gather Round fixture against the Gold Coast Suns at Barossa Park on Saturday, April 12, 2025.
Davies-Uniacke, who turned 25 earlier this year, has been one of the league's most sought-after talents, poised to become a restricted free agent at the end of the season. His decision to re-sign, shunning lucrative offers from rival clubs including St Kilda, is not only a testament to his commitment to North Melbourne but also a clear indication of his belief in the club's future.
Having played 112 games since being drafted with the fourth overall pick in the 2017 AFL Draft, Davies-Uniacke has established himself as a key player for the Kangaroos. His breakout season in 2024 saw him feature in every match, culminating in him winning the Syd Barker Medal, awarded to the club's best and fairest player.
North Melbourne's head of football talent, Brady Rawlings, expressed his excitement about the re-signing, stating, "Luke is a very important and much-loved member of our playing group, so to have him sign on for seven more years is brilliant news for us and our supporters. His long-term commitment despite significant interest from other clubs is also a fantastic show of confidence in our program and the future of the club."
Rawlings further emphasized Davies-Uniacke's potential, saying, "At 25, Luke has plenty of great football still ahead of him, and we look forward to watching him deliver it here at North Melbourne." This sentiment was echoed by fellow teammate and vice-captain Harry Sheezel, who noted a noticeable increase in Davies-Uniacke's leadership and investment in the team this season.
Sheezel remarked, "This year compared to other years, I’ve noticed he’s just so invested in our group from a leader’s perspective and helping out us young midfielders. I think he just ultimately wants success and I have no doubt if we win a few games early on he will sign the contract and he’ll lock into the Roos."
Davies-Uniacke's re-signing is part of a broader trend at North Melbourne, where the club has successfully secured long-term commitments from several key players. He joins fellow teammates Jy Simpkin, Nick Larkey, Cameron Zurhaar, and Tristan Xerri, all of whom have also extended their contracts until at least 2029, while Sheezel has committed until 2030.
This influx of talent and commitment comes at a crucial time for the Kangaroos, who currently sit 13th on the AFL ladder with a record of 1-3. The addition of experienced players like former Sydney captain Luke Parker, ex-Western Bulldog Caleb Daniel, and former West Coast forward Jack Darling has brought a new level of depth and experience to the squad.
As Davies-Uniacke prepares for the upcoming match against the Suns, the excitement surrounding his contract extension is palpable among fans and players alike. The Kangaroos are looking to build on their young core and establish a competitive team in the coming years, and having a player of Davies-Uniacke's caliber is a significant step in that direction.
With the contract extension likely to be one of the richest in the club's history, believed to be worth approximately $1.3 million per season, it signals North Melbourne's intent to invest in their future and solidify their standing in the league. The Kangaroos are hoping that this commitment will not only retain their current talent but also attract new players looking to join a club on the rise.
As the Gather Round approaches, all eyes will be on Davies-Uniacke and his teammates as they aim to turn around their early-season fortunes. The match against the Gold Coast is set to be a crucial test for the Kangaroos, and with their star midfielder committed for the long haul, the future looks bright for North Melbourne fans.
In conclusion, Luke Davies-Uniacke's decision to stay with the Kangaroos is a monumental step for both the player and the club. It reflects a growing belief in North Melbourne's direction and potential, setting the stage for an exciting era in Kangaroos football.
