Hundreds flock to TIO Stadium to watch Gary Ablett Jr play for Palmerston in the NTFL
TIO Stadium’s grandstand was chock-a-block with footy fans as one of the game’s greatest ever players made his debut in the NTFL for Palmerston against St Mary’s. See all the pictures.
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One of the greatest footballers in AFL history has drawn hundreds of supporters to TIO Stadium for his NTFL debut.
The Little Master, who was lured north by his close friend Mathew Stokes, got an early handball to Magpies star and reigning Nichols medallist Eric Guthrie early in the first quarter to get into the contest — his first since the 2020 AFL grand final.
And scores of children ran onto the ground during the main break to kick footies as the Saints held a 25-point lead, while Palmerston’s huddle was surrounded by eager fans.
However, before the ball was bounced, Palmerston Division 1 assistant coach Troy Garling said the club had been blessed by a number of ex-AFL players this season at Cazalys Arena, including Ablett Jr, Mathew Stokes, Cam Pedersen, Neville Jetta, Travis Varcoe and Ashton Hams.
He said there was a “really good vibe” when the dual Brownlow medallist trained at Cazalys Arena on Thursday night.
“It was great when Eddie Betts was here too, and Travis,” Garling said.
“(He was) very humble. Almost like he’s from Darwin, a casual bloke who loves the game again.
“It’s really good for NT Territory to have these lads come over, having somebody like Gary tonight is amazing.”
Fellow Magpie supporter Brock Hellyer travelled from Alice Springs for the game, saying Ablett Jr’s inclusion was a further sign of the growing appeal of Territory footy.
“It raises the profile (of Territory footy),” he said.
“If we do get a national team, this helps our cause.”
Tess Hams, partner of Palmerston recruit Ashton, said him playing alongside Ablett Jr had made his move from Tiwi Bombers all the more enjoyable.
Meanwhile, Justin Boencke, a Gold Cost Suns member, said his daughter Billie had picked Palmerston to support this year.
“It’s special for her,” Boencke said.
“It’s either Palmerston or Buffaloes. This year she chose Palmerston.
“It seems Palmo’s year, they seem to be playing well.”
Boencke said he was looking forward to seeing Ablett Jr play in what is expected to be his final year of competitive football.
“Hopefully he lasts beyond quarter time and doesn’t pass out from heat stroke,” he said with a laugh.
“It will be good to watch him.
“We don’t get exposed to much (AFL) until the Suns come up. To have him or Eddie Betts running around (is great).”
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