One of North’s favourite sons, Michael Firrito,  will be the ‘Homecoming Hero’ on Saturday night at Etihad Stadium.

Firrito typified what it meant to ‘Be A Shinboner’ during his 14 years at Arden Street, and had one of the greatest honours for a Kangaroo.

“He received the ultimate accolade, by Glenn Archer, Shinboner of the Century, handing his number and jumper down when (Archer) retired,” Anthony Stevens explained.

“The way he attacks the ball, the way he puts pressure on, the one-percenters, is what he does to a tee.”

Initially selected by North in the 2002 Rookie Draft, Firrito made his debut against Essendon in 2003 and was part of the side’s best 22 from the next season on.

A dependable, reliable hand down back, Firrito spent the last nine seasons of his career in the number 11 jumper – only behind Archer for most games played in the guernsey.

There will be a special video package played on the scoreboard pre-game, with Firrito to hand the match ball to Jack Ziebell and hit the North drum as the team runs out onto the field.