AFL Northern Territory (AFLNT) today announces a major new investment in the future of Territory football, with the launch of a Darwin-based Top End Youth Academy.
Set to commence in early 2026, the new Academy represents a significant step forward in strengthening junior and youth pathways across Greater Darwin, supporting the Territory’s rapidly growing participation base and creating real, tangible opportunities for young Territorians to thrive in the game.
Head of AFL Northern Territory, Sam Gibson, said the Academy is part of a broader, long-term approach to strengthening player pathways across the Northern Territory.
“The game is growing at every level, and so is the demand for clear, well-supported development opportunities,” Gibson said.
“This is a long-term commitment to giving Territory kids the opportunity to learn, grow and play the game they love through high-quality coaching, strong mentoring and a robust pathway.”
The Top End Youth Academy will complement the existing Cazalys NT Academy pathway and the work of our local NTFL Clubs. While the Cazalys NT Academy primarily supports older youth and emerging talent across the Territory through high-quality Under 16 and Under 18 programs, the new Top End Youth Academy will focus on boys and girls aged 10-15 from the Greater Darwin region.
The year-round program will provide a clear and structured pathway for young players, including a focus on Indigenous youth - who currently make up over 50% of the participants within talent and community football programs - to develop their skills and confidence.
“The Top End Youth Academy strengthens our pathway system from the ground up,” said Gibson. “It’s about giving younger players a structured, supportive and professional environment so when they progress to programs like the Cazalys NT Academy, they arrive ready to succeed.”
Based at the Michael Long Learning and Leadership Centre, the Top End Youth Academy will deliver programs for boys and girls aged 10–15 from the Greater Darwin region. The Academy will focus on:
Fundamental skill development
Football education and game awareness
Off-field growth including wellbeing and leadership
Structured match play and development tours
Individual development planning for each participant
The Top End Youth Academy will be fully resourced and delivered by dedicated full-time and casual staff, supported by specialist coaches and development professionals. The launch of the program offers exciting opportunities for those passionate about developing the next generation of talent. These roles will go live in the coming weeks.