Pagan, coach of North’s team of the century, joined the board for 2008 but last month voiced his intentions to re-visit a career that saw him lead the Roos to flags in 1996 and 1999 before departing Arden Street for Carlton.
Chairman James Brayshaw confirmed at Friday night’s Syd Barker Medal count that Pagan planned to coach again “at under-18 level or a level where he’s working with young players”.
Despite Pagan’s short tenure as a director, Brayshaw praised his contribution.
“Denis, last year when we decided to stay here in Melbourne, was one of the first to ring me and ask if he could help in any way possible,” he told the 700-strong crowd at Melbourne’s Grand Hyatt.
“He was an enormous help, even though he’s very self-effacing about his role as a director.
“He will be greatly missed. That said, I would like to wish him – as all the board members and North Melbourne administrators would – all the best with his business endeavours.
“We have assured him, don’t worry, he’ll be very welcome at the club he loves most.”
It has been 10 months since Brayshaw assumed the role of chairman, strengthening North Melbourne’s decision to knock back a relocation to the Gold Coast while overseeing the announcement of the redevelopment of the Arden Street facilities and the appointment of key administrators.
Off-field partnerships and the commitment of more than 34,000 members have also bolstered the club, with Brayshaw confirming a profit of more than $1 million for the first time in North’s history.
