The Geelong Cats launched the Next Gen NT program in Yirrkala on the Gove Peninsula in the Northern Territory on Tuesday. The Cats are working in partnership with AFLNT, East Arnhem Regional Council and Miwatj Health to deliver a 15-week program to boys and girls aged 11-15 years throughout East Arnhem Land.

Steven Motlop made the 4,000km trip north with a group of Geelong Cats staff members to support the program.

"It's fantastic to be involved with a program like this that gives young players opportunities and pathways not only in footy but in life - who knows where this could take them?!,” he said.

Geelong Cats Academy Pathways Manager, Simone Bellears said the support from the community had been impressive.

"From the announcement of the AFL Next Gen program in 2016, we have been in contact with so many organisations on the Gove Peninsula who have been investing in football in the region for many years.

“This academy is theirs to not only provide pathways to further opportunities for their young people, but assist in building capacity for coaching and other roles around their local leagues,” Bellears said.

Geelong Cats Academy Coach Paul Hood also made the trip north and has been impressed with the talent he has seen during the short visit.

"The kids that attended the clinic today showed some real promise. I encourage them to keep their attendance up at school so they can access the program we are providing to nurture and develop their football,” Hood said.

With the roll out of the Next Gen Academy aligning with the establishment of the GAFL junior competition, the future is bright for young footballers in East Arnhem Land.

The Next Gen Barwon program will be officially launched in Geelong on Thursday night as part of the Cats’ Australia Post AFL Community Camp.