The NT Thunder Inclusion Team took home NT Team of the Year at the 2020 NT Sports Awards on Saturday night for its inspiring achievements on the national stage last year.
The team emerged champions at the 2019 AFL National Inclusion Carnival where every state and territory is represented by the country’s most talented footballers living with an intellectual disability. The Territory side took on Vic Metro in a tight four quarter tussle that saw Thunder take home the win with a five point margin.
“AFLNT is immensely proud of the NT Thunder Inclusion Team for its win against Vic Metro in the 2019 carnival,” Head of AFLNT Stuart Totham said.
Not only does this carnival give players a chance to represent the Territory, it is also a significant opportunity for personal growth and to be a leader in our community and these young men took that opportunity and excelled. A partnership with Total Recreation helped make this opportunity possible with 2019 being the first year the Northern Territory competed in the national event.
“This award is well-deserved recognition of the performance and work of many to bring this team together,” Totham said.
“We acknowledge the important role sport plays to improving the quality of life for those less fortunate and diversity and inclusion are a big focus for the AFL moving forward.”
The NT Sports Awards celebrate the Territory’s elite sports people and recognise the outstanding achievements of our athletes, coaches, sporting officials and volunteers. You can see the full list of winners here: https://newsroom.nt.gov.au/mediaRelease/34023