AFL Northern Territory (AFLNT) is delighted to confirm the highly anticipated return of the Michael Long Cup (MLC) for 2024. A highlight on the AFLNT calendar, this year’s event is set to take place on the 23rd and 24th of August 2024, promising an action-packed two days of emerging football talent.
Hosted at TIO Stadium, the Under 15’s Michael Long Cup will gather the most promising male and female players from right across the Northern Territory, with the top 50 players converging in Darwin to showcase their skills and passion for the game in the round robin tournament.
An exciting development for 2024 is the introduction of regional carnivals as part of the Michael Long Cup player selection process. The Cazalys NT Talent Academy team alongside AFLNT regional and remote based travelled to various regions, including the Tiwi Islands, Katherine, Gove, Tennant Creek, and Alice Springs, to identify and scout potential young talents.
These regional carnivals provided a platform for players from diverse backgrounds to highlight their abilities and vie for selection in the Michael Long Cup in their own backyard.
Additionally, the AFLNT Talent Academy utilized the Emerging Talent Programs as a talent identification process for the U15 Michael Long Cup invitations.
Open trials hosted in both Darwin and Alice Springs during June and July, offered aspiring players the opportunity to demonstrate their potential and earn a coveted spot in the program.
Select players from the open trials on early July in Alice Springs have been invited to a 6-week Emerging Talent Program. Players selected from the open trials in Darwin will then be invited to a 10-week program, training once a week.
Cazalys NT Talent Academy Manager, Shannon Millar said "We are thrilled to bring back the Michael Long Cup for 2024, a cornerstone event for AFLNT Talent Academy.
“This year's Cup promises to be more dynamic and inclusive than ever before, with the introduction of regional carnivals to ensure we discover and nurture talent from every corner of the NT.
It is an exciting opportunity for young players to shine and for the AFLNT community to celebrate the incredible passion and skill across our regions. We look forward to witnessing the next generation of football stars showcase their talents on this prestigious stage."
The 2024 Michael Long Cup will offer a comprehensive camp-style experience. Players will have the unique opportunity to engage in a range of activities, including wellbeing education sessions, prep to play programs, gym technique workshops, and football skill sessions.
In addition, participants will be introduced to the Cazalys NT Talent Academy values, training standards, expectations to commence their talent journey. This complete approach aims to foster both the physical and mental aspects of young athletes' development.
This year's Michael Long Cup aims to not only showcase the depth of talent across the Territory but also provide a clear pathway for aspiring young footballers.
