GPA founder Donal O'Neill is spearheading a multi-million euro plan to set up an Irish-dominated Australian Rules team in Sydney. The sensational development is sure to send shockwaves throughout the GAA at a time when AFL clubs are increasingly looking to Ireland for new talent. AFL chief Mike Fitzpatrick said O'Neill had submitted a business proposal to his association in January 2007 in a bid to secure a club licence. He proposed a team made up almost entirely of Gaelic football recruits which would be called 'Sydney Celtics'. O'Neill outlined his plans to secure multi-million euro funding from Ireland, Britain and the US. The club would be based in western Sydney and could debut in 2012. The audacious plan is now back on the agenda table following AFL agent Ricky Nixon's recent scouting mission in Ireland. Fitzpatrick said: "While it's not without its issues, it's something we'll explore. We are not discounting anything at this stage." By using the 'Celtic' brand, O'Neill's plan would give the AFL a higher profile in Ireland and Britain, and bring an expanded TV audience. Tweet

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