Blow for Mayo as inter-county star signs for Australian club

THE Mayo Ladies senior squad have been dealt a blow today with news that attacking star Maria Cannon will be playing Australian Football shortly after it was announced that the Burrishoole woman has signed a contract with Carlton for the coming season. The talented forward famously kicked the winning point when her club won the 2022 county senior final and now she is set to join six other Mayo players in the AFLW.

Cannon is an established member of the Mayo senior team and is regarded as one of the most exciting forwards in the game. Her ability to kick scores from placed balls and open play has made her an invaluable asset for her club and county.

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The fact that such a talented footballer has signed for Carlton has been welcomed by the Head of AFLW Ash McNulty, who said the Burrishoole woman will add to the talent on view when the new season begins. 

“She is an attacking forward and dangerous in front of goal. The raw speed and significant running capacity she possesses along with her ability to transition the ball across the field cleanly, will make her a great asset to our team."

Meanwhile, Burrishoole GAA and LGFA have wished their star forward every success and pointed out that she's following in the footsteps of a legendary clubmate. "We are beyond sad to see her go, but we are very proud of Maria and her achievements. She is the second player from Burrishoole to be drafted Down Under following in the footsteps of her former manager, Colm McManamon. We are thrilled to see Maria's career progress.

"Wishing Maria all the very best with everything Australia has in store."

Another Irish recruit to bolster the list

We've signed Maria Cannon to our AFLW list

— Carlton Women's (@carltonfc_w) February 21, 2025

Cannon will join another Mayo woman, Dayna Finn at Carlton and McNulty said the Claremorris midfielder has made a huge impact down Under. 

“We have seen such a growth in Dayna across her time at Carlton. She was placed within the top 10 in last year's Best and Fairest. 

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“Maria is another exciting recruit from Ireland: we are really proud of the immense work our recruiters are doing over there to find us the best talent." 

The Burrishoole woman was this morning named in the Mayo team to take on Armagh in Saturday evening's National League game in The Athletic Grounds.