Northern Territory academy takes on Brisbane, Tasmania and GWS in tough interstate series

The NT Talent Academy under-16s side made a strong account of themselves in a tough series of matches against elite interstate opposition. Read about the standout performers.

Hugo Timms was named the under-16s NT’s Most Valuable Player. Picture: AFLNT Media

The NT Talent Academy under-16s side made a strong account of themselves in a tough series of matches against elite interstate opposition.

The Territory team took on the Tasmania Academy, GWS Giants Academy and Brisbane Lions Academy in the three match series.

Their intent showed against Tasmania at Chirnside Park going goal for goal early and levelling out again in the final quarter after a difficult middle half where the opposition piled on 10 goals to two.

Ruckman Isaac Herold was influential around the stoppages, while Gary Lawford and Deacon Summerville provided consistency across the ground.

Hugo Timms of Northern Territory celebrates a goal with teammates during the 2025 Marsh AFL National Development Championships U16 Boys match between Tasmania and Northern Territory. Picture: Craig Dooley/AFL Photos

Six individual goal kickers for NT highlighted a promising spread in attack and gave the side plenty to work on across a 35-day break before taking on GWS.

The Territorians capitalised on GWS’s early inaccuracy and their own physicality 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.

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.

The Territory again showcased their growth in a spirited effort against Brisbane, though were down four goals to one in the opening term after some inaccuracies.

The NT were able to go goal for goal in the following two quarters trading five goals each before the Lions broke away in the final period to seal a 46-point win.

Trigwell was again reliable down back with 25 disposals and Isaac Herold fought hard in the ruck with 16 hit outs.

Gary Lawford (18 Disposals) and Benjamin Barnard (18 Disposals) both battled until the final siren, while Jarryn Sambo added spark in attack.

Reuben Breuger of Northern Territory competes for a ground ball during the 2025 Marsh AFL National Development Championships U16 Boys match between Tasmania and Northern Territory. Picture: Craig Dooley/AFL Photos

Timms was named the NT’s Most Valuable Player for his consistent effort, contested work and relentless attitude.

Cazalys NT Talent Academy head coach Dale Eames said his side had responded admirably following their opening defeat.

“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.”

Originally published as Northern Territory academy takes on Brisbane, Tasmania and GWS in tough interstate series