Dear sponsors, members and fans,

Wow! Hasn’t it been a busy three weeks!

I’d like to start by thanking everyone for the overwhelming response and support to my appointment and for making me feel welcome.

Being Territory raised, it is a huge privilege for me to have been appointed as head coach of NT Thunder.

It has been exciting to secure the services of some of the Territory’s most talented young footballers to inject onto the list alongside the already experienced and wise heads of Cameron Ilett, Darren Ewing, Richard Tambling, Shannon Rioli and Matthew Rosier.

I am passionate about ensuring NT Thunder will remain a Club where Territorians are given the opportunity to realise their dreams.

I have been impressed with the commitment shown by the boys so far and we’re only three weeks into our pre-season. Our pre-season is unique in the fact that 100% of players committed to Thunder in 2017 are midway through their NTFL club season.

To date, the training focus has been based around load management and injury prevention.

Off the field, the players’ willingness to actively participate in community engagement, like our recent visit to the Royal Darwin Hospital children’s ward, has inspired me. Handing out gifts and putting smiles on the faces of sick children, most of who are from remote Territory locations, is an unexpected bonus for all of us involved at NT Thunder.

I’d like to take this opportunity to wish you and your families a merry Christmas and a happy New Year.

I look forward to having your continued support and seeing you around the Club in 2017.

Cheers,

Hodgy