The Gold Coast SUNS will play St Kilda in Darwin in 2020.
The match to be played at TIO Stadium is sure to provide an electric atmosphere on June 13 when local fans are treated to a Round 13 showdown between the SUNS and St Kilda.
The first time the club has played in Darwin for premiership points since 2012, SUNS Acting Chief Executive Simon Fitzgibbon said he was excited about the opportunities the game would provide for the club and local football fans.
“The premiership game in Darwin is a small but significant part of our relationship with both the NT Government and AFL Northern Territory, and we’re looking forward to putting on an exciting spectacle against St Kilda,” Fitzgibbon said.
“Alongside our commitment to delivering programs and creating pathways to foster talent and develop people, we also want to encourage Territorians to come out and enjoy football at TIO Stadium.”
The SUNS and Saints met twice in 2019 with the both games decided by a combined margin of five points.
AFLNT CEO Stuart Totham said it was going to be busy but fun for footy fans.
"With thanks to the NT Government, the AFL and the Gold Coast SUNS we have some action-packed footy months to look forward to next year.
"In Darwin, it's refreshing to have two teams who have not played here in a long time and if their games in 2019 are anything to go by then we're in for a thriller," he said.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Culture, Lauren Moss spoke to the impact elite games have.
“Territorians love their footy, and the Territory Labor Government loves bringing big games to the Territory.
“Footy is more than just a game here; it’s also an important way to keep kids on a positive path and supports strong and vibrant communities. The spinoffs for the economy and local jobs through visitation to the NT are also significant.
“The new deal with the SUNS will also support AFLNT’s new player pathways plan, which will focus on uncovering and developing talent right across the Territory and ultimately get Territory talent on AFL and AFLW lists.
“This is an exciting new chapter in Territory football," she said.
Toyota AFL Premiership Season
Gold Coast SUNS vs St Kilda
Saturday June 13 – Round 13
4:05pm ACST
TIO Stadium, Darwin
