Young Dublin GAA dual star James Madden has signed for AFL club Brisbane Lions
We reported in June that a number of Aussie Rules clubs were seeking the Dubliner's signature and the 18-year-old, who has starred for his county at both minor and U20 levels, has agreed a two-year, Category B rookie deal with the Lions.
The Ballyboden St Enda's clubman - centre forward for the Dublin U20s this year - is in Brisbane at present and told the Lions website: "A lot of Irish lads would love to get this opportunity. You've really got to cherish it. It's a good challenge obviously, new experience, new country, new city. I knew it had been coming for a while now and it's great to finally be here."
It's a blow for Dublin, who managed to fend off strong interest from Down Under to hold onto senior star Ciaran Kilkenny.
TweetOur newest recruit broke the all-time AFL Draft Combine 20 metre sprint record at the European Combine last year!
- Brisbane Lions (@brisbanelions) August 14, 2018
Hear what James Madden had to say about joining the Club. pic.twitter.com/fkInUVrcax