Buffaloes recruiting focusing on key position players as the 2020-21 NTFL season looms

Buffaloes eye on height to supplement their abundance of skilled running players

Darwin recruit Daniel Kaipara handballs during an Adelaide Football League match. Picture: Mark Brake

THE Darwin Buffaloes have gone big this season in a bid to give their smaller players first use of the football.

Finalists in the last three NTFL seasons, the Cameron Stokes coached Double Blues are looking upwards in the former Hawthorn players’ first season in the coaching seat.

“We’re always on the lookout for a key position player with the club already having the smalls to cover the various running roles,’’ Stokes said.

It’s why we’ve recruited a centre half-forward, full forward type and with Brodie Foster relocating to Darwin it adds more height to the side.’’

Adelaide-born Daniel Kaipara measures up at 195cm in what amounts to an early Christmas present for the Buffalo speedsters.

Used to standing at a big forward’s feet in the hope of some crumbing activity or running past for a handball, those tasks will multiply in 2020.

Kaipara was part of the Adelaide Crows’ development side in the SANFL until the COVID-19 pandemic made its presence felt.

“He’s keen to come up here and play some games for the Buffaloes and we’re pleased to have him,’’ Stokes said..

“It’s why we haven’t picked up too many new faces.

“The focus has been on our key positions with big Will Clarke another tall coming back to us after spending a few years in Melbourne.’’

And while the emphasis has been on tall timber during the off-season, Stokes has an abundance of players with pace and skill to throw at opposition sides.

Midfielder Michael “Josh’’ Coombes is back for a second season in a Buffalo jumper after making his name at St Mary’s and Michael Hagan’s inclusion once his five-match suspension from the grand final is served will be a big bonus for the club.

“We’ve got a lot of trust in our local blokes to fill the running roles in what will be an exciting season for the club if it all falls into place,’’ Stokes said.

The Buffaloes open their season against the Tiwi Bombers at Gardens Oval on Saturday, October 3.