The men’s NT Thunder Academy 2019 fixtures have been released for the upcoming AFL Under 18s and NAB AFL Under 16s.
The AFL Under 18s runs from late March to early May and has taken on a different format this year, with former Division 2 Under 18 Academy teams joining a new-look competition with what was formerly the TAC Cup (still to be renamed).
NT Thunder’s Under 18 campaign kicks off at Blacktown International Sportspark (BISP) against the Gold Coast Suns at 2:30pm (AEDT) on Saturday 30 March.
The U16s kick off their National Championships at BISP against Tasmania, however their games are held later in the year running from late June to early July.
While the fixtures have been released, the final U18 Men’s NT Thunder Academy squad will be announced in early March and the U16s NT Thunder Academy squad announced in late May.
NT Thunder Academy Coach, Jason Roe can’t wait to see how the draw will pan out with some new teams adding extra flavor to this year’s mix.
“We’re pleased with the even spread of U18 games that we’ve been appointed in 2019, which includes challenges against old rivals (Gold Coast and Tasmania).
“Plus, it’s exciting to see new U18 teams added to our usual mix (Western Jets, Rebels and the Knights) and coming from Victoria. With most of our games in Melbourne, this will expose our Territory players to AFL observers.
“The under 18 boys have already begun training with our different NT regional academies. Their gym programs, education sessions and conditioning is already in full swing so it’s a busy and exciting few months ahead,” he said.
AFLNT Manager of Talent and Pathways Wally Gallio said this year’s fixtures is a positive step for revealing future Territory talent to southern scouters.
“The new look Under 18s will test both coaching staff and players in the five-game series against talent from three states. It also gives the best opportunity for our players to be included in the Allies to play in the National Championships.
“With games being played in Sydney and Melbourne players will be fully exposed to all 18 AFL clubs. This will also give new NT Thunder head coach Darren Reeves a good look at the young talent he has available in 2019 and beyond,” Gallio said.
For updates on the team’s results head to Men’s Under 18s and Men’s Under 16s once the games have begun.
Please note: The women’s Academy program and fixtures is to be advised.
2019 AFL Under 18s fixture:
ROUND 1
2.30pm Saturday 30 March
NT Thunder vs Gold Coast Suns
Blacktown International Sportspark (BISP), Blacktown, NSW
ROUND 2
2pm Sunday 7 April
NT Thunder vs Tasmania
Arden St Oval, North Melbourne, VIC
ROUND 3
2.30pm Sunday 14 April
Western Jets vs NT Thunder
Burbank Oval, Williamstown, VIC
ROUND 4
2pm Sunday 28 April
Greater Western Victoria Rebels vs NT Thunder
Windy Hill, Essendon, VIC
ROUND 5
2pm Sunday 5 May
NT Thunder vs Northern Knights
Ikon Park, Carlton North, VIC
2019 NAB AFL Under 16s fixture:
ROUND 1
10.30am Sunday 23 June
NT Thunder vs Tasmania
Blacktown International Sportspark (BISP), Blacktown, NSW
ROUND 2
10am Tuesday 9 July
NT Thunder vs NSW/ACT
Metricon Stadium, Gold Coast, QLD
ROUND 3
12:15pm Saturday 13 July
Queensland vs NT Thunder
Yeronga Oval, Brisbane, QLD