Kobe McDonald joins up with St Kilda as Australian adventure begins
The Crossmolina native has officially began his AFL career as he arrived at The Saints training ground today.
Teenager and recent All Ireland winner, Kobe McDonald has touched down in Australia to join his new teammates at St Kilda, spending his first day at the club on Friday ahead of his switch ‘Down Under’.
The 18 year old who signed as a category B rookie is one of three Irish talents involved at St Kilda. Cork’s Liam O’Connell and Meath’s Eamonn Armstrong are the two other Irish natives involved while former Westport Ladies and Mayo footballer Saoirse Lally is also at the Melbourne based club.
“Everyone at the club was certainly invested in following Kobe’s journey through the GAA finals,” St Kilda General Manager of Football Lenny Hayes said in an interview posted on The Saints website.
“The scenes when Mayo won the All-Ireland Championship were incredible to watch from afar, and we’re thrilled for Kobe that he was able to bring so much joy to his county. Our expectations for Kobe in the short term are quite modest. The priority is helping him settle into Melbourne, build strong relationships at the club and give him the time and support to adapt to a completely new sport.
“We're excited by the attributes he brings, but we also recognise the transition from Gaelic football to AFL takes time. We’ll be patient and allow him to gradually integrate into our program.”
Kobe is expected to be in attendance this weekend when St Kilda clash with local rivals Carlton. That game throws-in at the Marvel Stadium at 10.20am on Sunday morning, Irish time.