AFL Northern Territory (AFLNT) in collaboration with the Gold Coast SUNS is proud to host Community Footy Appreciation round during the Round 9 Toyota AFL Premiership match between the Gold Coast SUNS and Western Bulldogs at TIO Stadium.
The match, scheduled for Saturday 10 May, will serve as the Community Footy Appreciation Round – a celebration of the people, partnerships and community spirit that underpin footy in the Territory.
The 2024/25 TIO NTFL season was one of the most significant in recent history, marked by record-breaking participation, crowd attendance, and a major uplift in umpire numbers. Driving the success is a vibrant football community who dedicates themselves to ensuring that footy across the Top End continues to go from strength to strength.
As part of the round AFLNT has partnered with our clubs, umpires, volunteers and community partners to ensure the members of our community can be a part of this celebration.
Head of AFL Northern Territory, Sam Gibson, said the round is about shining a spotlight on those who keep the game thriving.
“This game is about more than just what happens on the field — it’s shaped by everyone who shows up, supports, and contributes behind the scenes. We’re recognising those who help keep the game strong and the community connected.”
“We’ve seen record participation this season, and that doesn’t happen without the commitment of many whose efforts have been central to delivering one of the most successful seasons the NTFL has ever seen.”
The 2024/25 season saw a 15 per cent increase in player numbers, with over 5,300 participants representing 175 teams and playing more than 1,100 games across the Top End.
Umpiring numbers also surged by 46 per cent, reaching 270 officials – with women and girls making up a quarter of the group. The NTFL now leads the country in female umpire representation, supported by a turnover rate of just six per cent – a standout result compared to the national average of 30 per cent.
As part of the round, 2024/25 NTFL Volunteer of the Year Eliza Caldow will be invited to toss the coin before the game and TIO NTFL Junior Umpire of the Year Lachlan Ammerlaan will also play a role in delivering the match ball to umpires before the game.
“It’s great that we’ll be able to acknowledge Eliza and Lachlan as part of the game. They are great examples of people in our footy community who make the TIO NTFL one of the most vibrant leagues in the country”
The Community Appreciation Round will also acknowledge the many community and organisational partnerships that make footy in the NT possible – from schools to Indigenous communities, sponsors, and community services.
Tickets for the general public are on sale now via Ticketmaster. Fans are encouraged to get in early to enjoy family-friendly entertainment and activities in the lead-up to the first bounce.