While Ben Brown might be new to the AFL, his family certainly isn't. The Tasmanian's family has a rich history in the game and there's even a flag winner among the lot.

Brown's uncle is none other than James Manson; a premiership player with Collingwood.

Manson played 167 career games; 120 with Collingwood and 47 with Fitzroy between 1985 and 1995, and couldn't be more proud of his young Kangaroo nephew.

“This has been the most fun ride I’ve been on for a while,” Manson told the Herald Sun.

“I’m North Melbourne through and through at the moment.

“I am proud of what he has done with his footy ability, but I am more proud of the human being that he is.”

It's not clear whether uncle James taught Brown how to kick for goal, as both have unusual styles. Manson drew attention for his awkward ball-drop, while Brown is becoming famous for his extremely long run up and set-shot routine.

“With this cult figure stuff, I think he has done more in his 10 games than I did in my 150-odd,” Manson joked.

Manson says while North fans are discovering something special in the 21-year-old, the family has always cherished his kind nature and love for his relatives.

Manson revealed Brown's pre-game ritual is to text message his grandmother, Val, to dedicate a goal to her if he kicks one.

His first AFL goal however, was reserved for someone as equally special. After the ball sailed through, Brown pointed to the sky.

"I know a lot of people were looking at Ben at the time and saying why is this kid celebrating his first goal like that,” Manson said.

“But it had significance to it that people didn’t know about it.”

Brown’s grandfather — and Manson’s father — died from a heart attack in May 2010, after his house was burgled.

"Four people broke into Mum and Dad’s house, and Dad basically passed away because of that ... he suffered a heart attack and could not be revived,” Manson said.

“That’s why Ben did what he did after he kicked that first goal. He is amazing to my mum (Val). He’s just a magic kid.”

The magic happens on the field too. Brown, almost single-handed, turned North's game on its head when the side was trailing Essendon by 33-points in last week's Elimination Final. He booted three goals in seven minutes of the third quarter as well as the first goal of the final term.

"It felt like the ground was shaking when the crowd went up after you kicked a goal," Brown recalled.

“At the moment I have just got to keep a lid on it. I’ve only played nine games of footy. I suppose it has been about trying to cement your slot.”