World Footy News

Colm Begley and John Heslin talk to Irish radio Newstalk about the homesickness and the early return home of Irish international rookies recruited to the AFL. 

This discussion is quite timely, just last week Irishman Daniel Flynn who was recruited by the Port Adelaide Football Club had flown back home to be with his family as his grandfather battles a serious illness.

Daniel, who joined the club as a rookie in November 2013, has taken a leave of absence and there is speculation that he may not return to the club at all. 

General Manager of Football, Peter Rohde, says Daniel will return home for an extended period.  “We wish Daniel and his family all the best in this difficult time,” Peter Rohde said.

“While Daniel has fitted in well and has made good progress with his football he has also struggled with home sickness.  The club will continue to work with Daniel to help him make the transition to playing football so far from home.”

20-year-old Flynn has played one game, in the NAB Challenge against the Crows on February 16.

Ciarán Kilkenny who returned home last year before his preseason training with Hawthorn had even finished, is another who felt the draw of home strongly.  Unfortunately for Kilkenny his GAA football season is already over after he ruptured the anterior cruciate ligament in his left knee.