Thunder Utility Zephaniah Skinner's AFL Dream came true in the 2010 NAB AFL Draft Last night when he was snapped up by the Western Bulldogs at Pick 88.
Skinner joins fellow Territorians Steven May (Gold Coast), Shaun Edwards and Curtly Hampton (GWS) who all found themselves on AFL lists during 2010.
"Once again the NT has produced talent far beyond its capabilities we eagerly await the rookie draft to see if other hopefuls make it," said AFLNT CEO Tony Frawley.
"It is a testament to our new talent structure and the fantastic work of the NT Thunder in identifying what would be lost talent in the Northern Territory."
Skinner told the NT News that he was watching the live broadcast with his team mates Bradley Palipuaminni, Cam Roberts, Brett Goodes and coach Murray Davis when the news came through last night.
"All my teammates, Muzz, Bradley and Cam, they all went mad ay. My sister was crying over the phone for me, she couldn't believe it. Back home, all the community are really happy for me," said an excited Skinner.
READ FULL NT NEWS ARTICLE HERE -
http://www.ntnews.com.au/article/2010/11/19/195221_ntsport.html
The Bulldogs were extremely pleased with the selection of Zephi and their Recuiting Manager - Simon Dalrymple made the following comments on their website today:
"Zephaniah is originally from Fitzroy Crossing and he's an excitement machine. I think our supporters should really look forward to watching him play. He's 190cm third tall who is a great tackler and applies great defensive pressure. That was a priority for us and Zephi was number one on our list.
"He's got great flair, but that's also coupled with the defensive pressure. It's a big city, Melbourne, which will be a big change from Fitzroy Crossing but he's been in Darwin for a year now and we've got some plans in place."
Read more about the WEstern Bulldogs Draft Picks -
http://www.westernbulldogs.com.au/season2011/westernbulldogsnewsfeature…
"AFL Northern Territory along with the NT Thunder and the broad Northen Territory Football Community wish Zephaniah the best of luck with his new endeavours into AFL Football with the WEstern Bulldogs."
" We hope to see him here in 2012 when the Bulldogs are set to return to TIO Stadium" said Frawley.
For full AFL Draft List Coverage click here -
www.afl.com.au/draft