The Northern Territory Government has pledged its support for Essendon’s Two Pathways, One Dream bid to join the AFLW in 2019.

The Bombers have had a strong presence in the Northern Territory for decades, supporting the growth and development of young aspiring athletes.

Northern Territory Chief Minister Michael Gunner said the Bombers had demonstrated a genuine and authentic commitment to talent pathways for female footballers.

“We want to give more Territory women a chance and that is why we are strong supporters of the Essendon Football Club bid – a bid done in partnership with the Tiwi Islands,” Gunner said.

The Northern Territory has produced a number of great footballers including Cyril Rioli, Maurice Rioli, Andrew Mcleod, Dean Rioli and Bombers Legend Michael Long.

A successful Essendon bid will allow women the same opportunity as men, to take their football to an elite level.

“The Territory has produced amazingly talented Aussie Rules footballers,” Gunner said.

“We have got some exceptional women in the Northern Territory, who play fantastic football and they deserve the same opportunity as Territory men.

“That’s why I, personally, and the Territory government are strong supporters of the Essendon Football club bid for a team in the AFL Women’s competition.”

Essendon has a number of talented women training and playing football in the Northern Territory as part of their Next Generation Academy.

There are currently eight clubs in the AFLW, offering more than 150 women the chance to play football at the highest level.

“I thank the AFL for providing it to them and I really want to see Essendon in the AFL Women’s competition,” Gunner said.