Former AFL players Quinton Narkle, Rory Atkins and Lloyd Johnston didn't wait long before pulling on the boots following their exits from the top flight.
The trio were farewelled by their respective clubs at the conclusion of the 2025 season, but immediately shot to the Northern Territory Football League (NTFL) to continue their playing career.
Narkle (Geelong, Port Adelaide and Fremantle) and Atkins (Adelaide, Gold Coast and Port Adelaide) retired from the AFL after stints at three clubs.
Atkins donned the Nightcliff Tigers guernsey in Round 1 of the 2025-26 season, helping the hosts claim a win over the Tiwi Bombers on Thursday night.
Former Demon and Box Hill Hawk Kye Declase lined up alongside the left-footer.
Ex-Essendon and West Coast players Anthony Munkara and Ashton Hams lined up for the Bombers.
Friday night saw Narkle and Johnston debut for the Southern Districts premier team in a stirring win over St Mary's.
The former Power and Cats forward was named best afield for Southern, and also managed to score a goal.
Johnston, who was delisted by the Suns after three seasons and five games, also contributed to the victory.
The pair lined up alongside former AFL players Steven Motlop and Jed Anderson.
