NTFL's March 21 Grand Final to be played at night.
THE Northern Territory Football League has broken with more than 90 years of tradition and will play this season's decider at night. In a move it says has the full backing of its eight clubs, the league this week announced its plans for the March 21 Grand Final.
AFLNT chief executive officer Tony Frawley this said he was happy the clubs endorsed the league's proposal.
"We want to turn the day into a carnival-like atmosphere where families can enjoy the footy and we will hopefully have a band playing for the young adults and the young at heart," he said.
"We believe that this move can really liven up the Grand Final day spectacle and make it a special occasion for all teams on the day, from the under-14s through to the league teams."
The main game will begin at 6pm which will allow the under-14 and under-16 grands finals to be played as curtain-raisers. These games had previously been played the day before.
DARREN MONCRIEFF
Darren@AboriginalFootball.com.au
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Statement from the AFLNT
THE Northern Territory Football League with the majority support of the NTFL clubs has decided to hold the 2008/09 TIO NTFL Grand Final at night.
The League Grand Final will begin at 6pm on Saturday, March 21. This delayed time will allow the Under-14 and Under-16 Grand Finals to also be played on the same day as the League Grand Final; previously the Grand Final for these grades was played the Friday prior to the League Grand Final.
AFLNT CEO Tony Frawley congratulated the NTFL clubs on their foresight and vision to enthusiastically adopt a night grand final, saying:
"The NTFL clubs were strong in their support in having a night grand final allowing the NTFL to incorporate more junior sides in the seasons showcase day, and also to help re-fresh the occasion.
"We want to turn the day into a carnival-like atmosphere where families can enjoy the footy and we will hopefully have a band playing for the young adults and the young at heart.
"We believe that this move can really liven up the Grand Final day spectacle and make it a special occasion for all teams on the day, from the Under 14s through to the League teams.
"The Under-13 and Under-15 Grand Finals will continue to be played on the Thursday prior to the League Grand Final. This will allow eligible players to play in a grand final on the Thursday and then have a one day rest before playing a second grand final on the Saturday."
Last Modified on 04/03/2009 22:10