In a 90’s era celebrated with some of North Melbourne’s greatest ever names, ‘Schwass’ was a fan favourite.

An outstanding junior talent, Wayne Schwass captained the North Melbourne under 19’s to the premiership in 1987, before making his senior debut the following season. 

The New-Zealand-born winger adapted quickly to senior football, averaging 18.4 disposals in his first year.

David Dench presents Wayne Schwass with his jumper.

Schwass went on to play 10 seasons in the royal blue and white stripes, notching up 184 appearances, including the flag triumph of 1996, and was vice-captain to Wayne Carey for several years.

A brilliant wingman who was known for his pace, courage and sublime left foot, the famous number two won back-to-back Syd Barker Medals in 1994 and 1995, finishing fourth in the 1994 Brownlow Medal count. 

Schwass enjoyed another fine season in 1996, and was one of the best-on-ground in the premiership decider against the Sydney Swans, collecting 25 disposals. 

Wayne Schwass celebrates the 1996 AFL Premiership win.

In 1997, he was traded to the Swans in exchange for future Norm Smith Medallist, Shannon Grant. 

At the Swans, Schwass continued to impress, winning a best and fairest and All-Australian selection in 1999.

In 2002, after 282 career games, he announced his retirement.

In the years since his playing career ended, Schwass has become one of Australia’s leading mental health advocates, and is the founder and CEO of Puka Up, an organisation that aims to raise awareness of mental illness. 

In 2018, he spoke to North Media about the struggles he endured as an AFL footballer, as he battled depression during his illustrious playing career.