NTFA: Standout players, surprise packets to watch as new era begins

The new-look NTFA Premier League has churned through its first month, with some players already standing out with consistent displays. We look at some who’ve impressed, and potential surprise packets going forward.

Matthew Lee, celebrates kicking a goal for South Launceston in 2023. Picture: Jon Tuxworth

Now just over a month into a new-look NTFA Premier League season, we cast an eye over the standout players so far who could make or break their teams’ seasons as we head into the colder months.

NORTH LAUNCESTON

Alex Lee: The State League veteran is far and away the best ruck in the league, and his work gives the Bombers’ already dominant midfield first use more often than not.

Alex Lee North Launceston. TSL grand final 2024 - North Launceston V Lauderdale. Picture: Nikki Davis-Jones

Brad Cox-Goodyer: No prizes for picking arguably the TSL’s ‘GOAT’, but the simple fact is no team has a good match-up for him now he’s playing almost exclusively as a forward.

Already has 28 goals in four games, 13 clear of next best Matthew Lee (South Launceston), and is likely to add another big bag at Scottsdale this week.

Possible surprise packet: Beau Nash - After playing 17 games for the Bombers last year, including the grand final, the young Devonport product has been given a bigger role in the midfield this season. Has made the most of it with some strong games, including being named in the Bombers’ best twice.

LAUNCESTON

Lucas Wootton: Rated half a chance of being considered in this year’s AFL Draft, Wootton began the year with an electric display in the win over South Launceston. The midfielder has missed the past two games through Devils commitments, but his skill and speed out of packs is a dangerous package.

Launceston's Lucas Wootton looks to gather possession. Picture: Jon Tuxworth

Zac Morris: Played for Tasmania against Norwood and while he’s played mostly half-back since joining the Blues from Longford this year, he can play on any line. A great magnet to move when needed for new coach Jake Hinds.

Possible surprise packet: Jacob Wheeler - The defender had a strong game for the Blues in last week’s hard fought win over Longford, and has played in all four senior games this year.

LONGFORD

Casey Brown: The experienced midfielder is leading from the front for a young Tigers side, and was arguably best on ground in the Tigers’ narrow loss to Launceston last week. His skills and ability to break lines is helping Longford take the game on.

Connor Alexander: The skipper has once again been a rock in defence and will need to continuing holding up against the stronger forward lines for the Tigers to keep being competitive.

Possible surprise packet: Joel Lloyd - Named in the Tigers’ best in two of 18 games last season, the half back has increased that to three in four games this season.

SOUTH LAUNCESTON

Tom Graham: One of four players in the league to be named in his side’s best in all four round so far. The midfielder has enjoyed a consistent season and has also contributed four goals.

Matthew Lee: The key forward has bounced back from being kept goalless against Launceston in round one with 15 in three games, including three against the all-conquering Bombers in round two.

South Launceston’s Matthew Lee celebrates a goal. Picture: Jon Tuxworth

Possible surprise packet: Logan Smith - The half forward has impressed since his move from Wynyard this year with his work rate. Named in the Bulldogs’ best three of four times.

DELORAINE

Ryan Berne: The midfielder has established himself as a standout midfielder in his second season with the Roos, and has been named in Deloraine’s best three of four times.

Laiden Bloomfield and Kye Chilcott: The Roos co-captains have been stalwarts and inspirational leaders for the club in recent times, and will be crucial in their planned rebuild in coming years.

Deloraine's Laiden Bloomfield gets a kick away. Picture: Jon Tuxworth

Possible surprise packet: Ben Atkins - Atkins played his football in Queensland last year, and is providing a good target up forward for the Roos.

SCOTTSDALE

Joel Hayes: The forward has been named in the Magpies’ best all four games and is a long term Magpie and former coach.

Scottsdale player and former senior coach Joel Hayes with daughter and under-11s player Mila and young player Lochie Bowerman last year. Picture: Jon Tuxworth

Brad Whish-Wilson: The midfielder has long been one of Deloraine’s most influential players and continues to lead the way in 2025.

Possible surprise packet: Elliot Tyson - Another of the Magpies’ long-time players, Tyson creates a lot from half-back and has been named in the team’s best three of four games this year.