The Cazalys NT Talent Academy Under 18 Girls have confirmed their team ahead of a historic clash with the Calder Cannons at TIO Oval 2 on Saturday, June 14 at 5pm.
For the first time, the Northern Territory girls will take to the field for a sanctioned home game, a milestone moment that recognises both the Territory’s growing influence in the AFL and AFLW talent pathways and the rise of female participation in the sport.
While the boys’ program returned to home soil in May this year with its first match in the NT since 2022, the girls have only previously featured in local exhibition games. Saturday’s match will mark a major step forward, offering the squad the chance to close out their 2025 Coates Talent League campaign in front of a home crowd.
After a slow start against the Sandringham Dragons, the NT side rebounded with a spirited showing against the Murray Bushrangers and now return to Darwin with renewed determination and a point to prove.
Cazalys NT Talent Academy Head Coach Dale Eames welcomed the occasion.
“It’s incredibly exciting for our Northern Territory girls to play a home game at TIO Oval 2. There’s nothing like running out onto our home ground with the support of family, friends, and the local community behind them.”
The match has free entry via the Bonson gate with the match to be streamed live and free on the Coates Talent League app.
FULL TEAM:
Backline: Lakhyah Hill, Danika McDonald, Bella McLean, Tatyana Perry, Lexie Cagney, Cate Twaddle
Centre: Keanne Hart-Aluni, Taelah Smith, Layla May
Forward: Shakana Rankine, Eva Harris, Lavinah Pollo, Demi-Lee Braun, Bonnie Brown, Shakaila Gardiner-Dunn
Followers: Jade Moir, Aaliyah Mukhlis, Marika Carlton
Interchange: Peggy Rock, Caity Sutherland, Bella Foster, Jenara Grant, Sharna Edwards
Emergency: Gabriella Reisinger, Jessica Hardwick, Faye Ratara