The Northern Territory Inclusion side has written a new chapter in Territory footy history, claiming the Division 2 Toyota AFL Open Premiership after a thrilling one-point victory over Western Australia in the Grand Final at La Trobe University, Melbourne, on Thursday morning. The 2025 Toyota AFL Open, proudly supported by Toyota and Disability Sports Australia, showcased the best of inclusive football across the country.
The NT side held off a fast-finishing Western Australia to win 7.4 (46) to 7.3 (45), capped by a match-winning goal in the final seconds. The victory marked the culmination of a week of resilience, growth, and determination for a group that showcased the talent and spirit of players with intellectual disability.
After a challenging start to the carnival, the NT squad found its rhythm midweek, notching strong finals wins over Western Australia and NSW/ACT before storming into the premiership decider.
In the Grand Final, it was the Territory’s composure and teamwork that proved decisive. Aaron Nilsson (Nightcliff), a four-time All Australian and 2024 NT MVP, was dangerous up forward throughout the match, providing a key target and kicking two important goals. Dion Hunt-Bond (Wanderers) and Brad Love (Skye All Abilities, VIC Draft) added crucial majors that kept NT in contention. Hartlay Rowe (Federals) produced the defining moment of the match, slotting the decisive goal in the final 20 seconds to secure the premiership for NT, after a late surge from Western Australia threatened to snatch the win.
The victory was a reward for the side’s spirit and teamwork, led by a mix of emerging talent and experienced campaigners. Brandon Redpath (Darwin), the 2023 NT MVP and 2024 All Australian, provided strong leadership across half-back, while George Maillis (Darwin, 2024 All Australian) and Isiah Keegan (Darwin, 2023 All Australian) added composure and class across the field.
Long-term coach William Warren, now in his fourth year leading the NT Inclusion side, reflected on the team’s achievement:
“I’ve had the privilege of coaching this side for four years, and to see them grow as players and as people, and to have all their hard work and dedication pay off in a Grand Final, is incredibly rewarding. To win the Division 2 premiership with a match-saving goal in the final 20 seconds is a credit to every player and the way they supported each other and the Territory.”
The NT Inclusion team’s journey to the title demonstrates the strength of inclusive pathways in the Northern Territory and the opportunities the program provides for athletes of all abilities to represent their community on the national stage.
The AFL Northern Territory thanks Toyota and Disability Sports Australia for their support of the 2025 Toyota AFL Open, helping to make events like this possible.