AFL Northern Territory is thrilled to announce the confirmed date, venue and NTFL Coaches for the return of the much-loved NTFL vs CAFL Representative matches.
Set for Saturday 5 April 2025 at TIO Traeger Park, Alice Springs this highly anticipated event will showcase the best of the Territory’s football talent, with both Men’s and Women’s representative teams going head-to-head in a thrilling revival of a historic rivalry.
The announcement follows AFLNT’s December 2024 confirmation that intrastate representative footy would make its exciting return, much to the delight of footy fans across the Territory.
Jasmyn Hewett has been appointed as coach of the NTFL Buffaloes Women’s team for this year’s representative clash. Hewett, a standout in the TIO NTFL, has built an impressive career, earned two Women’s Premier League Best and Fairest medals, and secured three Grand Final Best on Ground awards.
Playing at the highest level in the AFL Women’s competition, Hewett played for both the Adelaide Crows and the Gold Coast SUNS, with her most recent stint at Adelaide ending in a premiership win in 2022. Hewett is excited to take on the role of head coach for the Buffaloes. “I’m incredibly excited and honoured to be coaching the NTFL Buffaloes Women’s side for this year’s NTFL vs CAFL clash. Coaching this team and representing the NTFL is something very special to me.
The rivalry between the NTFL and CAFL has always been a thrilling one, and I’m looking forward to leading this talented group onto the field at TIO Traeger Park. We’re ready to show the Territory’s best footy and inspire the next generation of players,” Hewett said.
On the Men’s side, Shannon Rusca has been appointed as head coach of the NTFL Buffaloes. Rusca’s credentials as a coach and player are second to none. A premiership-winning coach with Southern Districts, as well as a former AFL player with the Brisbane Lions, Rusca has an in-depth knowledge of Territory footy. His playing career includes time with the Northern Territory Thunder, where he was an inaugural player and assistant coach.
Rusca’s coaching record speaks for itself, and he is eager to lead the NTFL Men’s team in this historic clash. “It’s an absolute privilege to be coaching the NTFL Buffaloes Men’s side for this prestigious representative clash. Having played and coached in the Territory for many years, I understand the pride and passion that comes with wearing the NTFL colours.
The NTFL and CAFL have always had a fierce rivalry, and to be a part of that history as a coach is a tremendous honour. I’m looking forward to working with a talented group of players and bringing that competitive spirit to TIO Traeger Park in April,” Rusca said.
Head of AFL Northern Territory, Sam Gibson, expressed his anticipation about the return of representative footy. “We’re thrilled to bring the NTFL vs CAFL Representative matches back in 2025. The history between these two leagues is something truly special, and we’re excited to give both the Men’s and Women’s sides the chance to showcase their talents on such a big stage. The addition of Jasmyn and Shannon as the NTFL coaches brings even more depth and leadership to this already highly anticipated clash.
This game will not only reignite the historic rivalry but also inspire the next generation of footy players across the Territory. We’re especially excited to bring this event to Alice Springs, reinforcing our commitment to supporting the growth of football in the region and showcasing the incredible strength of both the NTFL and CAFL. Alice Springs has long been a cornerstone of Territory footy, and we look forward to delivering a memorable experience for local fans.”
The NTFL vs CAFL clash dates to 1948, with Darwin winning eight of the nine inter-town clashes played between 1948 and 1984 and CAFL securing a win in 1952. The return of these iconic matches, after decades of absence, marks an exciting chapter for both the NTFL and CAFL, as well as for homegrown footy fans across the Territory.
Stay tuned for more updates on the event details, including CAFL coach announcements, squad announcements and information on ticketing.