Games: 306

He was a surprise packet in North's premiership year in 1996 as he began the season with just a couple of games under his belt yet became a regular member of the unit and played in the premiership team.

The left-footer could play in any of the flank or pocket positions and showed his capabilities on the win. Cemented his place in 1997 and played in another premiership side in 1999. From Eltham and the Northern Knights, he developed into one of the Roos' most valuable players, especially in the midfield. 

Simpson by 2001 had become one of the league's most prolific midfielders and he capped a superb 2002 by winning the club's best and fairest and winning All-Australian honours. He also represented Australia in Ireland. Simpson ran second in the 203 best and fairest after a typically consistent year.

After Anthony Stevens stepped down as skipper Simpson took on the mantle and in 2004 it did not detract from his play in the least as he came third in the best and fairest. He made light of injuries that included a punctured lung and a foot problem in 2005 but still soldiered on. 

He was solid in the following year before finishing the campaign three weeks early to ease the stress on a groin injury. He ran second in the 2007 best and fairest and eight the following year but decided to hand over the captaincy at the end of the season.

Despite celebrating his 33rd birthday during 2009, the veteran continued to be one of North Melbourne's most important players before eventually hanging up his boots.