As you may have heard, NT Thunder was due to announce Darwin Buffaloes player, Tai Martin-Page as a new addition to our family in 2018.

It is very sad and deeply distressing that Tai was involved in an unfortunate incident in the opening minutes of the Wanderers FC vs Darwin Buffaloes FC game on Saturday, which has resulted in spinal surgery and an intense stint in rehab to come.

Along with the Buffs, and the rest of the NT footy community, all our thoughts, prayers and best wishes are with Tai and his family. Rest-assured that everyone at AFLNT is doing what they can to support those affected and have offered the same care to our playing group and staff.

In the short time Tai had been around Thunder he displayed all the values and behaviour we want at our footy club. He is a quality person, who had an immediate impact and is the type of young man we want involved in our program.

After everything I’ve heard, and my own experience with Tai, there is no doubt that he will show us all how it’s done and meet his challenges head on. I can’t wait to see what he does next!

CLICK HERE for the Go Fund Me page to donate to Tai’s recovery.

Andrew Hodges