How Gold Coast and Darwin Could Transform Territory Football Forever
The Gold Coast SUNS have their 2026 fixture locked in with two Darwin games, marking the fifth consecutive season the SUNS have hosted two games in the Top End. But here's the thing. Playing two games a year in the Territory is thinking way too small.
The Suns already have four NT players on their list: Joel Jeffrey, Daniel Rioli, Ben Long and Jy Farrar. That's proof the talent exists. Now it's time to turn a trickle into a pipeline.
Make Game Week Development Week
Bring the entire coaching department, not just players signing autographs. Run intensive clinics for local coaches. Share AFL training methods. Teach sports science. When every local coach understands professional standards, the entire Territory's football improves.
The Territory Contingent
Joel, Daniel, Ben and Jy are ambassadors. Have them mentor Territory juniors via video calls throughout the year. When they play in Darwin, make it a homecoming that shows every local kid what's possible.
Joel Jeffrey said it himself: playing in Darwin during the Sir Doug Nicholls Round is special. But it could be transformative if done right.
Create Jobs That Last
These games generate temporary buzz. Why not permanent employment? Train locals in sports management, event coordination, and marketing. Build expertise that benefits the Territory beyond just football. The NT government is already funding this, and measures need to be taken to help make that investment count year-round.
Tell Stories That Matter
Document Territory players chasing their dreams. Show communities where football changes lives. Air it nationally. Change the narrative from "Darwin hosts games" to "the Territory produces AFL stars."
The Bottom Line
Right now, the Gold Coast gets two home wins, and Darwin gets two big events. But they could create something revolutionary. Gold Coast becomes the Territory's team, with first access to NT talent and a genuine community connection. The Territory gets professional development that transforms football from grassroots up.
AFL Northern Territory wants growth. The NT government wants economic benefits. The Suns want wins and supporters. All the pieces exist. Someone just needs to connect them.
The Suns have won eight straight in Darwin. They've proven TIO Stadium is their fortress and their home away from home. Now it's time to build something bigger than wins and losses. It's time to make Territory football matter.
Because settling for two games a year when you could transform an entire region's sporting future? That's leaving points on the board. And champion teams don't do that.