After making his debut for NT Thunder in season 2016, AFLNT State Academy player Tony Olango has agreed to play for the Club in 2017.

Olango played two games in the senior side last year and was an integral part of the AFLNT State Academy U18 squad.

His performances in the Academy program lead to Allies honours in the NAB AFL U18 Championships and Olango was selected to test at the AFL National Draft Combine last October.

The 18-year-old, who stands at 201cm, missed out on AFL club selection, which has been a bonus for NT Thunder according to head coach Andrew Hodges.

“It was disappointing Tony missed out on being picked up at the AFL Draft but we’re looking forward to spending the 2017 season working closely with developing him as an overage player with the State Academy and giving him every opportunity in NEAFL to showcase his talents.

“Tony is an exciting athlete that can play in the ruck but has the ability to play key position forward and back,” Hodges said.

Olango will be sponsored by McDonald’s in 2017.