Round 1, 1973; it won't trigger memories of a famous win in North Melbourne's history, or an amazing goal or mark.

But a Saturday afternoon at Arden Street was the official beginning of the one of the club's finest eras.

April 7, 47 years ago to the day, was the day Ron Barassi coached North for the first time.

Six premierships as a player, and two as a coach - he came with an amazing reputation.

But having left coaching at the end of 1971 to pursue business ambitions, no one really knew what to expect at his new club.

So in front of 15,934 people at North's traditional home, Barassi took the reins of North Melbourne.

Meanwhile, a 20 year-old by the name of Wayne Schimmelbusch was making his debut in the royal blue and white.

Some other handy recruits are also looking to mark their mark; Barry Davis, Doug Wade and John Rantall have all arrived via the controversial 10-year rule.

Only months after 'winning' the wooden spoon, North's prospects are looking a lot more promising.

And what a way to start 1973; Davis, previously a star at Essendon, has 26 disposals and 2 goals, Wade and Robert Peterson kick 5 each.

Against a side on the brink of a brilliant era itself, North wins by 28 points.

A five-point loss in the final round ultimately costs Barassi a finals' berth in his first season, but going from one win to 11 is a pretty amazing achievement in itself.

By 1974, North made it to the Grand Final, albeit with some pretty handy names joining the team; Barry Cable and Malcolm Blight just to name a couple.

One year later, and in just his third year as coach, Barassi guided the club to its first ever premiership. In two years, North had gone from cellar-dweller, to star-studded - the envy of teams around the competition. 

Barassi and the Roos tasted premiership glory again in 1977. 

And Schimmelbusch, well he had a pretty amazing career too; 306 games, 29 finals, 354 goals, nine years as captain and a member of the North Melbourne Team of the Century; not a bad resume!

Affectionately known as 'Schimma', he also went on to coach North for three seasons. 

So that first round of 1973 may not be remembered all that well, but it's fair to say, it set the tone for some pretty unforgettable times to come.