Thunder announce 2017 leadership group

30.03.17 19:02

NT Thunder announced its 2017 Leadership Group at the Club’s Season Launch event at the Michael Long Learning and Leadership Centre on Thursday night.

Shannon Rioli will enter his second year as NT Thunder Captain and is joined by three of last year’s leadership group members in Justin Beugelaar (Vice Captain), Richard Tambling and Cameron Ilett.

Shannon’s brother Benjamin Rioli completes the leadership group in what will be his sixth season for NT Thunder after debuting in 2012.

Ben finished fourth in Thunder’s 2016 Club Champion Award and also took home the Under 23 Best Talent Award. He more recently played in his third Premiership with NTFL club St Mary’s, enjoying a stellar year.

Shannon Rioli said, “It’s pleasing to carry over the majority of the leadership group from 2016 and have such a high calibre of leaders at the club.

“The inclusion of Ben will inject new energy into the group, and he is well respected amongst his peers on and off the field.”

Northern Territory Minister for Tourism and Culture, Lauren Moss was also announced as the new Patron of the NT Thunder Football Club at the Season Launch.

“I’m very proud to be the patron of the NT Thunder, a football club that has not only achieved great things on the field but off it as well,” Ms Moss said.

“The NT Thunder embodies everything that is great about the Northern Territory, they are fantastic role models for our children and represent us with pride on the national stage.

“I look forward to a wonderful season.”

The NT Thunder season kicks off this Saturday at TIO Stadium against old rivals the Aspley Hornets at 6.30pm.

The AFLNT State Academy will play the Sydney Swans Academy in the Under 18’s curtain raiser at 3.20pm.