Down’s minor captain, James Colganm with the Tom Markham Cup

Saturday, October 08, 2005

 

The agent appointed by Brisbane Lions to identify the next Tadhg Kennelly has admitted that the Lions are interested in putting Down’s All-Ireland MFC winning duo James Colgan and Martin Clarke through their paces.

Gerard Scholly who was responsible for the recruitment of the O hAilpin brothers, Setanta and Aisake, says the Aussies aren’t intent on plundering the cream of young GAA talent though.

"The success of Tadhg Kennelly has made Irish players more attractive to Aussie Rules clubs but we also have a fabulous respect for the history and tradition of Irish sport.

"The vast majority of Irish boys will always choose to play Irish sport; all we are doing is giving those who are interested in Australian Rules the opportunity to see how good they are.

"There are strict recruitment procedures in place in both countries so the idea that Aussie Rules clubs can just turn up and offer Irish boys a rookie contract is completely wrong."