While not resulting in a top finish, the 2024 Toyota AFL Open provided valuable opportunities for growth and development. The tournament marked a significant step forward in terms of inclusivity and the strengthening of team cohesion, with notable individual achievements underscoring the hard work and commitment of the travelling players.
With the new addition of Alice Springs based players, the Northern Territory Inclusion team delivered some of the strongest performances in recent years, with standout player Aaron Nielson earning the title of Northern Territory's Best and Fairest. His consistent efforts were complemented by the selection of Brandon Redpath and George Maillis to the prestigious 2024 Inclusion All-Australian team.
While the NT Inclusion team did not secure the trophy, they still managed to notch up notable victories against teams from New South Wales/Australian Capital Territory, Victoria Metro, Victoria Country, and Queensland—showing the team's growing strength and cohesion.
In the Wheelchair competition, the Northern Territory team exhibited immense determination and heart, though the results did not go their way. Despite this, there were individual accolades to celebrate. James Chapman was named Northern Territory's Best and Fairest for the Wheelchair team, while Mellissa Dunn was recognised for her outstanding performance and leadership, earning a well-deserved spot in the Wheelchair All-Australian team.
Dunn's contributions were further acknowledged with the prestigious 2024 Australian Defence Force (ADF) Spirit of the Open Award, recognising her exemplary attitude on the court. This special award is presented to a player who embodies the ADF’s core values of Service, Courage, Respect, Integrity, and Excellence. A panel made up of ADF members, Disability Services Australia representatives, and AFL officials selected Dunn for her remarkable sportsmanship and dedication throughout the tournament.
Known for her positivity and approachability, Dunn displayed unwavering respect for the game, her teammates, and officials, even when faced with challenging moments on the court. She demonstrated a relentless desire to learn, constantly seeking ways to improve both her own skills and the performance of her team. Her respect for the game and her unwavering commitment to each match were also widely praised by ADF officials, who observed her playing every minute of every game.
Dunn spoke on how she felt about the recognition on her positive attitude and her experience during the Toyota AFL Open. “I am extremely grateful for being recognised for the spirit of the game. However, the real highlight of the week was witnessing the camaraderie between everyone involved in the tournament.”
“The welcoming and supportive attitude of the wheelchair AFL community was truly inspiring and is a testament as to why this sport has become such a success.”