World Footy News

Five Irishmen have been picked up by AFL clubs in the pre-season rookie draft but Brian Moran was left disappointed after St Kilda decided against offering him a deal after a three week trial. All the signings were expected and have previously been reported by worldfootynews.com with Tommy Walsh joining the Saints, Chris McKaigue singing with the Sydney Swans, Carlton and the Brisbane Lions supplementing their Irish talent by signing Zac Tuohy and Niall McKeever respectively; and James O’Reilly becoming the first Irish recruit to join Richmond.

Walsh, seen as one of the most promising young players in the Irish game, has signed a two year rookie contract while Moran after his trial has returned to Ireland. Both players helped their native Kerry to triumph in the All-Ireland final in September with Moran coincidently replacing Walsh as a substitute.

The Saints have talked of the capture of Walsh, winner of the 2008 young player of the year, as being a real coup. He has long been talked about as a future star of the GAA and his skills as a tall full forward are seen as perfect for the transition to the oval ball game. In the past no Irish player has been established as a key forward in the AFL (though at times Setanta O'hAilpin has gone close) and Walsh could well be the first player to do this.

When announcing the signing St Kilda could barely hide their excitement at Walsh’s potential. “Tommy Walsh is one of the most credentialed players to come out of Ireland,” says the Saints General Manager of Football – List Management, Matthew Drain. “While he faces hard work to adapt to AFL at the highest level, we are confident that what we have seen of him proves he has enormous talent to become an important player for St Kilda. Essentially, we see that Tommy Walsh, in addition with Andrew Lovett, has taken place as a first round draft pick, based on his size, ability and credentials.”

Despite his disappointment there was no hint of regret from Moran and he sees no down side to other Irishmen travelling for trial in Australia. “You really learn a lot about your body, how to push yourself, and be the professional athlete,” Moran told the Irish Times. “Even if it doesn’t work out for you, it’s a huge experience. You get to see the workings of the club and a different management and their view on things. They really try and develop you mentally and physically. I would definitely encourage any guy going out to the trial just for the training.”

Meanwhile Chris McKaigue spoke to The Age newspaper about how he plans to combat the home sickness that has affected so many other Irish recruits. “There's no doubt the homesickness side of it plays a big role,'' said McKaigue. “While the club has signed me for my football ability, my attitude is probably my best attribute. For an Irish guy coming over playing a different game, I think your attitude has to be spot on.

''I certainly gave up a lot back home. I was in university studying law, I was playing senior football with my county (Co. Down) team already, so I've come over with the mindset that I'm going to make it and that's the way it's going to be.” Such a bullish outlook will no doubt be helped by McKaigue initially living in Sydney with his cousin while also having the returning Tadhg Kennelly as a teammate.