World Footy News

The AFL’s Rookie Draft held yesterday provided the final formality for two young Irish talents as they made their way onto the lists of both Hawthorn and the Sydney Swans. Conor Glass and Colin O’Riordin were both signed by their respective clubs back in October after the 2015 season was completed. The Rookie Draft was the final stage of their selection process.

Conor Glass is from Maghera in Northern Ireland and has been signed as an International Category B Rookie after his eye-catching displays of Gaelic Football as captain of the Derry youth team. Hawthorn have been tracking Glass for some time, assisting him to come to the club to meet the players and get a feel off the heartland of AFL footy in Melbourne. The Hawks used their final pick in the draft, pick 62 in the fourth round, to complete his recruitment process.

The Sydney Swans had also had their eye on O’Riordin for some time also, but had to win a bidding war against both St Kilda and Essendon to secure his signature. He was also interviewed by both the Western Bulldogs and the Brisbane Lions. O’Riordin caught the eye of talents scouts at the AFL Combine in Dublin in December 2014. He enhanced that reputation with an impressive display at the recent Draft Combine in October.

Tadhg Kennelley, in his role of international talent co-ordinator, was impressed with the Tipperary junior star and has likened his style to that of Brisbane Lions player, Pearce Hanley. O’Riordin has surprised many with his enormous athleticism but also his highly developed kicking skills.

The Swans used their sixth round pick (pick 69 overall) to formally add O’Riordin to their playing roster for 2016.

For both players the hard work begins now as they make arrangements to be a part of their respective club’s pre-season training programs. Their progress will be watched with great interest.

Photo Credits: Hawthorn FC (Conor Glass), RTE Sport - Ireland (Colin O'Riordin)