World Footy News

Aisake O hAilpin has admitted that the reason why he signed for Aussie Rules outfit Carlton Blues was because it offered him the chance to become a full-time professional sportsman. The 19-year-old followed in the footsteps of his older brother Setanta by joining the Melbourne-based club’s rookie list for next year on Friday, December 3. Having starred in Na Piarsaigh’s Cork SHC success in October, he was tipped to make a breakthrough with the Cork senior hurlers, but chose Australian Rules for one very clear reason.

"I wanted to come down and see what it was like. As soon as I walked through the doors I loved it. All the lads were great and I knew straight away this is what I wanted to do.

"Like Setanta, I have a real desire to become a full-time professional athlete, something we cannot do in Ireland."

The new recruit was given the number 45 jersey which interestingly, was previously worn by a close friend of the O hAilpin family, Anthony Franchina, who played in over 100 games between 1997 and 2004.

"I am truly honoured to wear the number 45. Anthony Franchina lived with our family while he was back home for a holiday and I got on really well with him," Aisake revealed.

"He was a great soldier for Carlton FC, and I hope I will serve the club just as well as Anthony did."