From the Territory and Back: Touching Down with the Devils

From the remote East Arnehm Lands to the Sunshine Coast – Annarrella Torres’Carne has had quite the journey to participate at the 2023 DoorDash National Youth Championships (NYC) with the Northern Territory Devils (Devils) 16s Girls side.

Hailing from Gove (Nhulunbuy), Annarrella has arguably clocked up the most kilometres to train and play with her team showing next level dedication and unwithering commitment.

When her Gove-Darwin flight was cancelled earlier this week, Annarrella embarked on an unannounced whirlwind trip around Australia just to get to the Sunny Coast.

Her re-booked flights saw her rack up the frequent flyer miles travelling via Darwin – Cairns – Sydney – Darwin and finally landing in the Sunshine State albeit it without her bags!

Even with the extended commute, and losing her luggage on the way, Torres’Carne remains upbeat and has relished the opportunity to line up against high levels of opposition.

“It’s [NYC] been really good. Getting to meet new people and play against girls from around the country has been really interesting,” Torres’Carne said.

“The team’s been really vibey, cruisy, and really welcoming. It’s been different here than in Darwin and Gove, so I’m just trying to adapt to it now.”

A collection of girls from different states has set the roster for the Devils in their 2023 NYC campaign, with team manager Kim Leonard-Bond praising the team’s camaraderie.

“We’ve got a couple of girls who’ve been here before, and they’ve said its better this year. They’re really enjoying it and have learnt a lot,” Leonard Bond said.

“My son [coach Jacob Lenoard] is a past player as well and has taught them a lot – they feel like it’s a better vibe with the whole team."

“Honesty, friendship, boosting each other up. It’s really worked well with them.”

Despite her initial stumble in arriving to the tournament, Torres’Carne continues to bring positive energy to her team – supported by inspiration from her family connection to the sport.

“My dad used to play [Touch Football] throughout his whole life. He got selected for the Australian squad when he was young and he’s inspired me a lot,” Torres’Carne said.

“I’ve never played Touch Football at this type of level before. Coming from remote Australia, working together as a team and learning new skills – the experience has been amazing.”