NT Thunder is thrilled to announce 22-year-old Braedon McLean will return to the Club in 2017.

Nephew of NT Team of the Century player, Michael McLean, Braedon played 10 games for Thunder across 2011-2013 and, to-date, has 80 NTFL Premier League games to his name.

He will wear the number 19 jumper for NT Thunder, the same number his uncle wore at the Brisbane Bears and for part of his NT representative career.

The Darwin local has been named in the Top 100 for the Wanderers Team of the Century and is due to play his 50th game for the club in the coming weeks.

McLean spent last season playing for the Wonthaggi Power in the Gippsland League and was selected for the interleague team.

He was also a member of the Wanderers NTFL side of 2014/15, which was coached by now Thunder head coach, Andrew Hodges.

Hodges said it was great to have a McLean back in a representative jumper.

“It is fantastic to see a name synonymous with Territory football back representing the NT at this level.

“It’s awesome to have Braedon return to the footy club this year. He is a real Territory footy story, having come through all our AFLNT development programs and being a member of the team that won the 2012 National Championships,” Hodges said.

Known as an inside mid, Hodges said McLean could also play on the wing and at halfback.

“He is youthful in age but has a lot of experience, which is great for our list.”

McLean said the lure of playing in front of Territory crowds and with some of his friends was a major draw card.

“I’m excited, firstly to play in front of family and friends at a high level and then to play with my best mates that I’ve grown up with but play against during the NTFL season.

“Thunder brings everyone together, and that’s what I look forward to,” McLean said.

As for playing under Hodges again, McLean added; “I’m happy to be back there and just listening to him.”