Now, he is a newly minted AFL player.
The Yarrawonga product debuted for North Melbourne on Saturday evening, featuring for the Kangaroos during a 31-point loss to Sydney Swans in round 19.
Despite the result, it was only fitting that Banch donned his new colours against those of his old team.
The diminutive Roo had limited involvement in his opening game at the top level, recording two disposals and two marks against Sydney.
But for his former coach, Shepparton Swans mentor Jedd Wright, it was a great moment for the club to see an ex-Swan grace the AFL.
“(It’s) fantastic,” Wright said.
“He's a legend, ‘Banga’ - I haven't had a look yet to see how he's gone, but as a family we always love North Melbourne.
“To see Banchy go there, get picked up and then make a debut, I'm sure it's like a dream come true for him and his family.”
The connection to North Melbourne runs deep at the Swans, with Wright’s brother Sam playing 136 games for the Shinboners.
Banch and Wright were teammates during the former’s tenure at Princess Park, with the hard-nosed midfielder playing 28 matches for the Swans before being picked up by Werribee in 2024, and eventually North Melbourne in the 2025 AFL Mid-Season Rookie Draft.
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