AFL Northern Territory, in collaboration with the Coates Talent League and the Cazalys NT Talent Academy, is thrilled to confirm the return of elite junior football to Darwin, with TIO Stadium set to host two official Coates Talent League matches for Premiership points in 2025.
The last time the Territory hosted a Coates Talent League fixture was in April 2022, when the NT male side faced off against the Geelong Falcons. That team featured future AFL draftees William Rowlands and Lloyd Johnston, both selected by the Gold Coast SUNS.
For the first time ever, the Northern Territory will host its own Girls NT Talent Academy team in the Coates Talent League, marking a significant milestone for female football in the Top End. Until now, players had only featured in exhibition matches at TIO Stadium, but this breakthrough cements the Territory's growing role on the national female talent pathway.
The Boys team will kick off as part of their 2025 campaign at 3:30pm on Saturday, May 10, against the Western Jets, as a curtain-raiser to the highly anticipated 2025 Toyota AFL Premiership clash between the Gold Coast SUNS and Western Bulldogs at 7:05pm. The Jets, who closed out their 2024 season with five wins from 15 matches, are winless in 2025 after three rounds.
The Girls will take the spotlight on Saturday, June 14, with their home debut scheduled for 5:00pm at TIO Oval 2. Building on a strong 2024 campaign that included a close loss to the Western Jets and a solid victory over the Murray Bushrangers, the NT squad is eager to perform in front of a passionate home crowd and continue their upward trajectory.
NT Talent Manager Shannon Millar said the matches represent a significant moment for Territory football.
“It’s incredibly exciting for our Northern Territory athletes to play a home game at TIO Stadium — there’s nothing quite like running out onto our home ground with the support of family, friends, and the local community behind them,” Millar said.
“This is a special opportunity not only for the players to showcase their talent on a big stage but also for loved ones to be there in person, sharing in the journey and celebrating the pride of Territory footy.”
CAZALYS NT TALENT ACADEMY vs WESTERN JETS (U18 BOYS)
Saturday, May 10, 2025
3:30pm ACST
TIO Stadium
To gain entry, you will be required to purchase a ticket to the 2025 Toyota AFL Match between the Gold Coast SUNS and Western Bulldogs available here.
CAZALYS NT TALENT ACADEMY vs CALDER CANNONS (U18 GIRLS)
Saturday, June 14, 2025
5:00pm ACST
TIO Oval 2
Free entry
HOW TO WATCH: Both matches will be available to watch live and free on the Coates Talent League App.