There’s been another welcome Christmas gift for NT Thunder with fan-favourite Ben Rioli stating his intentions to play in the 2017 NEAFL season by signing on for next year.

Known for his speed and expert ball handling, Rioli will become one of the more experienced team members when he laces up for his sixth season at Thunder alongside older brother, Shannon.

Rioli played 17 games last season and won the ANZAC Day Medal for his impressive 25-disposal performance against Redland in Round 4.

He was also the INPEX U23 Best Talent award recipient and finished fourth in the 2016 NT Thunder Club Champion count.

NT Thunder Head Coach, Andrew Hodges said Rioli was a ‘must-have’ player for the team.

“Ben is a dedicated individual with a team-first mentality. There is no doubt that he is one of the most exciting players to watch but he is also a player his teammates trust implicitly when he gets his hands on the ball,” Hodges said.

In 2017 Rioli will be once again sponsored by Hidden Valley Ford.