Massive boost for Kildare with return of powerhouse from Aussie Rules

The lilies are blooming.

If the GAA are persisting on keeping the provincial championships – even though 12 teams compete in one and six compete in another – then it’s going to continue to fall at Kildare’s doorstep, the burden of putting it up to Dublin.

After the last Lilywhite revolution flattered to deceive somewhat, they’re just threatening to come back for some more with Niall Kelly and Ben McCormack at the head of the latest attack.

Taking the game back https://t.co/aDjzWgBWmr #GAA #Kildare

— SportsJOE (@SportsJOEdotie) February 7, 2017

But back-up is coming and it is coming in the form of heavy, powerful artillery.

It’s coming in the form of Paddy Brophy.

After helping Kildare to August football and then round four of the All-Ireland championship back in 2014, Brophy then made the switch to the AFL where he joined the West Coast Eagles on a professional contract.

Despite failing to make a breakthrough onto the first team whilst living in Perth, the 23-year-old’s high catching and drives from half back were marked out as special by the club on their website.

The Eagles described Brophy as ‘popular’ and ‘valued’ in the announcement that he was leaving the club but the player cited homesickness as a reason for his return.

“It’s disappointing it’s over, but it’s time,” the 23-year-old told the Eagles’ website.

“I am going home for personal reasons, including homesickness, but I have really enjoyed my time at the club.

“It has been a great experience but I will go back home, continue my university studies and play Gaelic football.”

Two years ago, after his first game in Australia, Brophy explained the differences physically between football and AFL.

But it’s back to his roots now and it’s hard to argue that this is not what he does best.

It’s hard to argue that he’s not going to have a huge impact on Kildare. Again.

The Lilywhites are up against either Laois or Longford in the quarter-final of the Leinster championship which will take place in Tullamore on June 3.

Leinster Senior Football Championship

First round
Louth v Wicklow
Laois v Longford
Carlow v Wexford

Quarter-final
Meath v Louth/Wicklow
Kildare v Laois/Longford
Dublin v Carlow/Wexford
Offaly v Westmeath

Semi-final
Kildare/Laois/Longford v Meath/Louth/Wicklow
Dublin/Carlow/Wexford v Offaly/Westmeath

Kildare have already gained promotion back to Division One and now, they have a professional athlete back amongst their ranks.

Brophy returns. Kildare’s rise continues.

The FootballJOE quiz: Were you paying attention? – episode 10