Nathan Djerrkura facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Nathan Djerrkura |
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Djerrkura with Geelong in 2008
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| Personal information | |||
| Full name | Nathan Djerrkura | ||
| Nickname(s) | Djidi | ||
| Date of birth | 19 September 1988 | ||
| Place of birth | Yirrkala, Northern Territory | ||
| Original team | Wanderers (NT) | ||
| Draft | 25th overall, 2006 Geelong |
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| Career highlights | |||
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Nathan Djerrkura, born on September 19, 1988, is a former professional Australian rules football player. He played for two teams in the Australian Football League (AFL): the Geelong Football Club and the Western Bulldogs.
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Discovering Nathan Djerrkura's Early Life
Nathan Djerrkura was born on September 19, 1988. His parents are Gatjil and Jenny Djerrkura. He grew up in Yirrkala, Northern Territory, an Indigenous community.
Nathan's father, Gatjil, was an important leader. He used to be the chairman of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Commission (ATSIC). Nathan is of Indigenous Australian heritage. His family history can be traced back to the Yolngu people. Nathan attended Scotch College, Melbourne on a special scholarship for Indigenous students.
Nathan's AFL Journey
Nathan Djerrkura was chosen as the 25th player in the 2006 National AFL Draft. He was seen as a very promising young midfielder. He was known for his strong work ethic and solid build for his size.
Nathan had amazing speed and put a lot of pressure on opponents with his tackling. He was one of the top young players from the Northern Territory in 2006. He was even featured on SBS in a TV special about the draft.
Playing for Geelong
In 2007, Nathan played in two NAB Cup matches. He was close to making his official AFL debut. He showed strong form in the reserves games. However, an injury early in the season while playing in the VFL caused a setback.
In 2008, Nathan took part in the 2008 AFL Grand Final sprint. He won his heat and finished third overall in the final race.
Moving to the Western Bulldogs
On October 8, 2010, Nathan was traded to the Western Bulldogs. In return, the Geelong Football Club received the 57th draft pick. Nathan played 21 games for the Western Bulldogs. He decided to retire from AFL football on September 15, 2012.
After leaving the AFL, Nathan continued to play football. In 2014, he joined the Northern Territory Thunder team. This team plays in the North East Australian Football League (NEAFL).
Achievements and Honours
Nathan Djerrkura achieved several honours during his football career.
Team Honours
- VFL Premiership (Geelong): 2007
* This means his team, Geelong, won the Victorian Football League championship in 2007.
Individual Honours
- Under 18 All-Australian: 2006
* He was chosen as one of the best players in Australia for his age group.
- Represented Northern Territory Under 18: 2006
* He played for his home territory's team.
- Represented Indigenous All-Stars: 2009
* He was selected to play for a special team made up of Indigenous Australian players.
