The Cazalys NT Talent Academy Under 16 Boys have wrapped up their 2025 campaign following a three-game series against elite opposition from the Tasmania Academy, GWS Giants Academy, and Brisbane Lions Academy.
The Territory side opened their series against Tasmania at Chirnside Park, coming out with energy and belief. Two early goals signalled their intent, as they went goal-for-goal with the Apple Isle outfit in an even first quarter. But the middle quarters saw momentum swing dramatically, with Tasmania piling on 10 goals to the NT’s two. The Territory boys regrouped in the final term to finish with composure and fire, slotting two late majors to restore pride in a tough loss.
Ruckman Isaac Herold was influential around the stoppages, while Gary Lawford and Deacon Summerville provided consistency across the ground. Six individual goal kickers for NT highlighted a promising spread in attack.
After a 35-day break, the squad resumed their campaign against the GWS Giants Academy at People First Stadium. The Territorians began with physicality and discipline, capitalising on GWS’s early inaccuracy to stay within eight points at halftime.
The Giants, however, flexed their depth after the main break, keeping NT goalless in the third quarter and kicking ten goals to none in the second half to finish 62-point winners.
Despite the scoreboard, there were plenty of positives for NT. PINT’s Hugo Timms was a standout with two goals and a commanding forward-line presence recording 10 contested possessions. Tyler Kelly showed his trademark aggression at the contest, while defenders Gus Trigwell (26 disposals, 11 intercepts) and Hau-Tze Rock (27 disposals, six intercepts) combined strongly under pressure to keep the game competitive for as long as possible.
The final hit-out against the Brisbane Lions Academy gave the Territory one last chance to showcase their growth, and they delivered a spirited effort.
Brisbane started hot with four goals to one in the opening term, though NT’s attacking effort wasn’t reflected on the scoreboard, recording four behinds. The second quarter was an even contest, with two goals apiece setting up a competitive second half.
In the third, the NT made their shots count with three straight goals, but Brisbane kept their edge, answering with three of their own. The Lions eventually broke away with four final-quarter goals to seal a 46-point win, but the Territory’s resistance never wavered.
Gus Trigwell was again reliable down back recording 25 disposals, Isaac Herold fought hard in the ruck with 16 hitouts, and Gary Lawford (18 Disposals), and Benjamin Barnard (18 Disposals) all battled until the final siren. Jaren Sambo added spark in attack, booting two goals in an eye-catching display.
At the conclusion of the series, Hugo Timms was named the NT’s Most Valuable Player for his consistent effort, contested work, and relentless attitude. His presence across all three games was a clear highlight in a campaign that emphasised development, toughness, and Territory pride.
Cazalys NT Talent Academy Head Coach Dale Eames praised his side’s response following their opening game.
“Our boys responded in a big way after a disappointing result against Tasmania,” Eames said.
“The coaches, led by Kieren Parnell, challenged the group to bring the intensity and focus for four quarters.
“Despite the results, it was a proud moment for our boys to have National Talent and Brisbane Lions Academy staff come up and acknowledge how strong the NT side performed.
“These trips provide fantastic opportunities for our players. Representing the Territory in front of AFL recruiters is massive, but just as important are the bonds the boys form off the field. That connection makes us stronger as a group.”