Northland continues to provide talent for the AFL New Zealand National Draft with the signing of onballer Te Kopa Tipene-Thomas.
Earmarked as a potential number one draft pick, the 18 year old Tipene-Thomas is best known for his aerobic capacity and elusiveness with ball in hand. First discovered through talent identification at Bay of Islands College three years ago, Thomas has been a regular fixture in New Zealand age group teams throughout that period.
“It’s great to have a chance to represent the Northland community in a premier competition. I would love to see other Northland players like Max Stuart and Ben Armstrong playing alongside me and against me. I can’t wait to get out there and line up against some of my best mates.” Tipene-Thomas said.
His selection into the 2014 International Cup team at the age of only 16 is testament to the talent he possesses. Under 16 Player of the Year in 2014 and Under 18 Player of the Year in 2015, Tipene-Thomas is already a respected member of the AFL community and will no doubt progress into a future leader.
He could well have his wish with the developing talent within the Northland region currently under scrutiny from AFL New Zealand Talent Identification.
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