Arguably one of the greatest rucks of the modern era, Todd Goldstein will play in his 200th career game this weekend at Optus Stadium.

Goldstein’s 199 career AFL games thus far have been littered with records and accolades, highlighting his dominance since debuting 10 years ago. 

North’s number 22 currently sits fourth for all-time hit outs, with 6380, and will have Gary Dempsey (6479) and Dean Cox (6628) firmly in his sights for at least second place before his career is out. 

Fittingly it is this weekend’s direct opponent, Aaron Sandilands, that leads the way with 8249, a number not out of the question for Goldstein if he stays fit. 

Of the players in the top 30 for all-time hit outs, Goldstein’s average of 32.06 per game is second overall.  

And of the top 20 individual seasons by rucks, he remarkably features four times (2013-2016), the most of any player. This list is headlined by his remarkable 1058 hit-outs in 2015.

North Media has broken down the milestones and records across Goldstein’s sparkling career so far. 

2006

Drafted by North Melbourne with pick #37 in the 2006 National Draft. 


Goldstein (second from left, back row) and his fellow 2006 North Melbourne draftees. (Photo: Herald Sun)

2008

Goldstein has to wait until Round 15 of 2008 to make his debut. Plays in three games in 2008, for three wins. Kicks two goals in his second game.


Goldstein celebrates his first win in game one.

2009

Goldstein plays 13 games for the season, forming a strong partnership alongside Hamish McIntosh. 


Goldstein and Hamish McIntosh would form a strong partnership in his early years at the club.

2010

Plays in 21 of 22 games for the season, winning an average of 17.5 hit-outs per game, forming a strong partnership with McIntosh once again.


Goldstein went from strength-to-strength in 2010.

2011

With McIntosh injured, Goldstein takes the mantle as North’s number one ruck. 

He thrives in his new role, and leads the league for hit-outs with 741 from 21 games (35.3 per game). Highlights his ability around the ground with 26 disposals, 6 marks, 30 hit-outs and 2 goals in win against Melbourne. Plays 50th game against St Kilda in Round 15.


Goldstein escapes Nick Riewoldt in game 50.

2012

McIntosh returns, but Goldstein continues to perform strongly, again playing 21 games. Finishes third in the league for hit-outs as North reach the finals.


Goldstein battles with Dean Cox in the 2012 Elimination Final.

2013

With McIntosh departing for the Cats, the responsibility falls on Goldstein. His 822 hit-outs make up 84.5 per cent of North’s total, and puts him second in the AFL, behind Will Minson. Plays 100th game against Hawthorn in Round 22.


Goldstein goes up against former mentor David Hale in game 100.

2014

Goldstein again stars for North, averaging 35 hit-outs and 12 disposals, helping the Roos reach the Preliminary final.


Goldstein holds off Patrick Ryder in the 2014 Elimination Final.

2015

Goldstein has arguably the most dominant year from a ruckman in history, setting multiple records. 

His 80 hit-outs against GWS in Round 11 is still an AFL record, as is the 1058 total for the season. 

Polls 18 votes in the Brownlow Medal count, finishing 10th overall, and is named All-Australian ruckman for his performances. Helps North reach back-to-back preliminary finals and wins the Syd Barker Medal. 


Goldstein and then-Bulldog Jake Stringer celebrate All-Australian selection.

2016

Plays 150th game v Adelaide in Round 1, and his fine start to the season is one of the contributors to the Roos' early season record of 9-0. Has one of the best games of his career in Round 3 win over Melbourne having 38 hit-outs, 19 disposals and kicks an equal career-high 5 goals. 


Goldstein grapples with Sam Jacobs in game 150.

2017

Goldstein’s form drops off slightly, but maintains his mantle as one of the game's best big men. Has 17 disposals, 8 tackles and 61 hit-outs in Round 9 win over Melbourne. 


Goldstein faces off against old rival Aaron Sandilands.

2018

Starts the season in fine form, averaging 33.7 hit outs in the first nine games. Prepares to play 200th AFL game against Fremantle at Optus Stadium.


Goldstein grapples with Jarrod Witts in Round 1 of this year.