AFL NT and the NT government have released a roadmap for establishing an NT team in the AFL within the next 10 years.
The Northern Territory's AFL peak body says the NT could see its own AFL team take to the field within the next decade, as it releases a road map including plans for a new city stadium. It says construction of a new stadium within the next seven to 10 years could cost between $700 million and $735 million.When it comes to AFL the Northern Territory punches above its weight. So why doesn't it have a team?The 210-page report envisages a new NT side could enter the competition "shortly after Tasmania in 2028", but would need the federal government to "support the delivery of the key stadium and other infrastructure" in both Darwin and Alice Springs.
But Mr Bowden also said the push to establish a team in Darwin and Alice Springs would need support from the AFL, its teams and the broader community."The talent that is just imbued in the Northern Territory amongst so many of our young people has to have that opportunity," he said."We want to see a dozen new Cyril Riolis, we want to see half a dozen new Andrew McLeods."