'This Is A Superb Opportunity For Fionn' - Declan Kelly

Photo Credit: St. Lomans Mullingar

The former Leinster academy player is heading down under.

Offaly U-20 and St. Lomans boss Declan Kelly believes Fionn O'Hara will have a lot of success during his A-F-L career with Hawthorn. 

The former Leinster academy and Westmeath minor has agreed a two-year rookie contract to join the side based in Victoria, Austraila after a successful trial period in 2020. 

He joins fellow Mullingar man John Heslin in making the decision to try out Aussie Rules at a young age. 

The 19-year-old has reportedly turned down terms with Ulster to do so. 

O'Hara hasn't been a part of the St. Lomans panel this season due to his rugby commitments, but Kelly did coach him last year and thinks it's a good move:

'It's a fantastic opportunity for the young man.

He's still under-20 next year, he's going out on a two year contract and in fairness to Fionn,  he's a very very level headed lad. 

Whatever he needs to do to make the most of the chance, I'm sure he will do that and we're just hoping it goes well for him and he gets a career in the AFL. 

It'd great to see another irishman over there as a full professional player.

It won't be bothering Fionn out there anyways.' 

 

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