North Melbourne has strengthened its government relations and enhanced its connection with the community following the appointment of life-long supporter, Dr Sonja Hood, to the Board. In another significant boost, club legend, Glenn Archer, has agreed to return, adding decades of football knowledge, insight and expertise.

Currently CEO of Community Hubs Australia and Board Chair of McAuley Community Services for Women, Dr Hood was a key player in mobilising the North supporter base when the AFL attempted to relocate the club to the Gold Coast in 2007. 

“Sonja is as passionate as anyone about our great club, and is a tremendously skilled and knowledgeable executive in the community and government relations space,” North chairman Ben Buckley said.

“In our effort to improve the level of skills and expertise we have on the Board, Sonja will be a great addition and will help us strategically as we look to further future-proof the club, grow our brand, our footprint and facilities.“

Dr Hood also established the club’s not-for-profit community arm, The Huddle, when she was General Manager of Community Engagement at North Melbourne from 2010 to 2015. 

Her work saw The Huddle recognised as an award-winning organisation and a leader in the community services sector.

“Sonja believes in the club; she’s supported North her whole life, has worked here, and continues to do whatever she can to help us be successful on and off the field.”

Archer returns as Director, after accepting an invitation to re-join the Board, also as a casual appointment ahead of the Annual General Meeting next year.

“Glenn stepped away during a busy time because of increasing business commitments earlier this year, but we are delighted to have him back,” Buckley said.

Archer is one of North’s most revered figures having played 311 games in the royal blue and white stripes. He was named Shinboner of the Century and is a member of the club’s Team of the Century.

Following his illustrious playing career which yielded two premierships, a Norm Smith Medal and three All-Australian team nods, Archer was a Director of Stride Sports, and is currently a Director of Kode Entertainment Group.

“We hope all North supporters see these two additions as significant announcements as they bring a lot to the table and have been wonderful contributors to our club over a long period of time,” Buckley said.