Roarty's AFL move confirmed as Collingwood announce signing

Donegal's Finbarr Roarty with Meath's Ciaran Caulfield ©INPHO/Tom O'Hanlon

Donegal defender Finbarr Roarty has officially begun the next chapter of his career after Australian Rules club Collingwood confirmed his signing on a two-year deal as a Category B rookie.

The 20-year-old Naomh Conaill player impressed during Donegal’s run to the 2025 All-Ireland final, earning an All-Star and Young Footballer of the Year award.

Collingwood National Recruiting Manager Shane O’Bree welcomed Roarty to the club and praised his potential.

“Finbarr is a highly talented young athlete with plenty of potential. His competitiveness, athletic profile and leadership qualities have stood out throughout his Gaelic career and we’re excited about what he can bring to our Club,” O’Bree said.

“Moving across the world to pursue an opportunity like this takes courage and we’re excited to be welcoming Finnbarr and his family to the Club. We look forward to seeing him embrace the program and continue to grow as a footballer.”