Andrew Hodges

Without relentless effort and a positive attitude, talent is just that

24.08.18 18:15

It’s been a long tough year, one that has seen performances well under our required expectations as a club. However, with the negatives always comes some positives. Seven under 18 academy players represented the club on numerous occasions this season. A further 12 players from regional and remote regions pulled on the NT Thunder jumper in 2018.

We are blessed here in the Territory with an abundance of talent, at times raw and untapped. To see that talent gracing TIO Stadium in a Thunder jumper, or playing in our local competitions is exciting. Many highlight reels over the years, but talent only gets you so far. You must have an equal amount of hard work to fully reach your potential. Without relentless effort and a positive attitude, talent is just that and will struggle to progress to the next level.

A classic example of getting the mix right and having done so for more than ten years are Cameron Ilett and Darren Ewing. Both extremely talented, and hard working. Always exceeding expectations and getting the most out of their talent through hard work. Talented players striving to reach their potential should look no further than these two men for inspiration.

With the season drawing to a close this weekend, the hard work is just beginning for a number of young NT Thunder players in preparation for upcoming draft combines. Matt Green, Michael Mummery and Izaak Wyatt will all head off to screenings around the country. Abraham Ankers and Sam Smith will join them in training and will test here in Darwin. I’m excited by the prospect of these young talented, hard working men gracing the AFL in the near future.