Nightcliff superstar Cameron Ilett has ‘a couple more years left’, says Tigers fans can dream of an NTFL premiership three-peat

CAMERON Ilett said he still had some good football left in him after the euphoria of winning a second consecutive NTFL title with Nightcliff back in March – and he meant it

Nightcliff playing-assistant coach Cameron Ilett says he’s ‘still got a couple more years left in me’ in what will be music to the ears of Tigers fans. Picture: Glenn Campbell

CAMERON Ilett said he still had some good football left in him after the euphoria of winning a second consecutive NTFL title with Nightcliff back in March – and he meant it.

The evergreen 35-year-old is hardly dreading yet another pre-season, which began at Tigerland on Tuesday, declaring “age is just a number”.

It is music to the ears of yellow-and-black supporters, who are yearning for a Territory football three-peat in the upcoming wet season.

“I’m good to go. I’ve still got a couple more seasons left in me,” the eight-time premiership winner – who plays his third CAFL game for Rovers against Federal at Traeger Park on Saturday – told the NT News.

“It’s been a blessing not playing much football (in the NTFL off-season). It’s given the body some time off.

“I’ve got three kids who keep me busy and keep me eating healthy.

“Age is just a number. The motivation is still there.”

Ilett says he has developed as a person while acting as the Tigers’ assistant playing-mentor to head coach Chris Baksh over the past two flag-winning seasons.

“I’ve really enjoyed the assistant role while playing, with Bakshy leading the ship while I still get the chance to chat to the boys,” Ilett said.

Adding to his enjoyment in the playing-assistant coach role is the amount of talented juniors coming through the ranks and pushing for Premier League spots.

“There are plenty of good kids coming through. We’ve got Christos Gikas in the backline, Graham Moniz Wakefield and Jermaine Heard who will get their opportunities,” Ilett said.

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“We had our first session back (on Tuesday) and it was really good to see everyone back.”

Ilett said Tigers fans can start dreaming of an NTFL three-peat if his teammates all buy in to what will be yet another gruelling pre-season.

“Every player can get better and better,” he said.

“There’s so much talent there. I’m looking forward to next season with this crew.”