ABC2 and the NTFL (Top End) 2004/05 season

[D/MoN]

Anyone know if/when ABC-TV's digital channel ABC2 will televise any of the NTFL matches this season?

And what of ABC-TV's movements in televising matches within the NT itself?

[The Majestic]

I've seen ABC2 Broadcast the Tiwi Islands Grand Final in the past, cannot say I have seen NTFL on there.

[footyman]

I didnt think ABC were covering the NTFL this season.

[D/MoN]

I didnt think ABC were covering the NTFL this season.

I heard they were after the New Year (could be a rumour, though). And if they do, then you'd think the ABC2 would repeat the main game, like they do for the WAFL, SANFL and VFL.

[footyman]

Found a story to confirm what you said D/Mon:

SUNDAY morning football returns to ABC television in February when Aunty provides delayed telecasts of NTFL matches.

The Sunday morning timeslot suits both parties, with the ABC showing the matches before scheduled programs and the AFLNT pleased no live games will be shown against the gate.

A traditional and popular football fare in Territory households throughout the 1980s and '90s, ABC management has gone for a double barrelled approach when the NTFL returns to television screens on February 5, presented by Charlie King.

The representative game between the NTFL and North Adelaide will kickstart the coverage that continues through until the NTFL Grand Final on March 25 and the Tiwi Island decider a day later.

While Northern Territory fans can watch a two-hour replay from 7-9am on Sunday, cable subscribers around the country can access the entire match on ABC2, the station's digital channel.

``That's a real boom for us,'' the Territory's ABC director Mark Bowling said yesterday.

``The stars of tomorrow will be seen right around Australia and it's something we're really excited about.

``Now even more people will be able to see the NTFL and that includes people on remote communities who provide a lot of the players in the competition.''

The national head of ABC sport, Iain Knight, said his organisation was ``extremely pleased'' to get Australian football back on ABC TV.

``I know (showing the footy) is one of the most important cultural events of the Northern Territory,'' Knight said.

AFLNT chief executive Tony Frawley said the product of the joint discussions had produced an ``outstanding result'' for NT football.

``The sponsors, clubs and supporters will all be happy with the result and the fact that our game will be shown right across the country,'' he said.

[D/MoN]

Found a story to confirm what you said D/Mon:

SUNDAY morning football returns to ABC television in February when Aunty provides delayed telecasts of NTFL matches.

etc...

Cheers big time, footyman. And to you, too, ABC2! :)