Last night the AFLNT Board ratified the conditional inclusion of the Redtails on a further 8 Game Trial into the TIO NTFL Competition for 2013/14 and also marked the approval of the introduction of the Total Player Points System.
The AFLNT board has recommended that the Central Australian Redtails be admitted into the TIO NTFL Premier League for season 2013/14 on an eight (8) game trial basis, however admission into the league is subject to a further five (5) years of Federal funding being committed to AFLNT and NT Thunder.
“The Redtails may well become an integral part of the overall Central Australian football structure which will enhance the NT Thunder presence and align with AFLNT development programs in the region, however AFLNT is awaiting confirmation of ongoing Federal Government funding to underpin these structures.
“Federal funding via the Australian Sports Commission has allowed AFLNT and NT Thunder deliver a myriad of positive outcomes for Centralians in the past five years, most notably the Central Australian Football League (CAFL) has evolved into a well run, financial and competitive league enjoyed by players and spectators alike and it is critical that the progress made continues for the next five years and beyond. We are particularly focused on ensuring that the CAFL continues to thrive” explained Tony Frawley, AFLNT CEO.
“We see the Redtails as a very meritorious concept however without federal funding underpinning both a strong AFLNT development presence and a continuation of the NT Thunder program in Central Australia we will not have the necessary structures or resources in Alice Springs to support the admission of the Redtails into the NTFL,” said Frawley.
“The Redtails are aware of our tireless efforts to secure ongoing funding for the AFLNT and NT Thunder programs in Central Australia and we will continue to work with the Redtails administration to map out a feasible future direction for the club.” The AFLNT board has also approved the implementation of a ‘player points system’ for season 2013/14.
The player points system has been designed through active consultation with the clubs and the systems primary aims are increasing opportunities for local junior players and reducing the number (and associated cost) of ‘fly in fly out’ players for NTFL clubs. Further information is set out below-
- NTFL player Points System has been in discussion phase with the clubs since August 2011, with the first paper and workshop presented in February 2012.
- The need to introduce the system is based on;
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- The National Player Transfer Regulations not allowing Tier 2 Competitions to use Transfer Fees (the NTFL is the only tier 2 competition using this model).
- To increase the opportunities for junior players to reach their highest possible standard,
- To increase ability to identify local talent, Northern Territory wide,
- To encourage local players to play NT Thunder as their choice of Tier 1 Club,
- To encourage player development over Fly in Fly Out players and to reduce the clubs “Fly In Fly” Out expenditure.
- To make a successful transition, there have been discussions, papers and workshops held over the past 2 years.
- It has been accepted that all clubs recognise the need for a system that is put in place to cover the needs of the current Transfer Fee operation
- It has also been accepted by the NTFL clubs that it is important for there to be a focus on junior development to fill the voids
- From an AFLNT perspective it is recognised that whatever system is introduced it needs to provide opportunities to develop local talent as well as ensure that the Premier League competition is strong and entertaining for the general public
The adoption of 22 points as the start point for the system is based on;
- Club identification of squads based on the figures provided by the AFLNT Football Operations department.
- Clubs were encouraged to pick their ‘best side’ from the “2012-13 Player List”. (average points accumulated 23.8)
- Clubs then worked through their team sheets as submitted in Round 14 of the 2012-13 Season. (average points accumulated 21.8)
- The dominant St Marys Grand Final win came with a combined total of 21 points (based on this system)
- It was highlighted by some clubs that if the points commenced at 22 then the status quo would remain for season 2013/14 as it was in 2012/13.
A thorough review assessing if the number of points, 22, is the correct capped number will take place at the end of the season.