John Fogarty: Ground rules need to be set for AFL poachers

It should be regulated how and where players can be contacted, and it should be insisted the AFL clubs work with the GAA units who invested in these footballers.

Talented Austin Stacks midfielder Ben Murphy is expected to sign with AFL side Brisbane Lions. Pic: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Seeing as Love Actually is a movie that grinds the gears of many people, it is with trepidation that we reference it here. But please bear with us.

County final day is like the arrivals gate of an airport. There is no day more life-affirming in the GAA calendar. It brings out the truth in people. Public displays of affection are encouraged and accentuated. Handshakes turn to hugs. Pats on the back become pets on the cheek. This past weekend there were 18 senior finals not to mention the intermediate and junior equivalents. Love was all around.