Poll backs retention of U-17 Rules series

A MASSIVE 98% of respondents to an internet GAA poll have rejected the idea that the International Rules U17 series should be scrapped if young Irish players continue to be lured down under by Australian Rules clubs.

The partnership between the GAA and the AFL - both at senior and underage levels - has been under the microscope after unacceptable levels of violence in the second Test in Melbourne and the signing of Laois youngsters Colm Begley and Brendan Quigley by the Brisbane Lions.

Meath’s Shane O’Rourke, son of former player and media pundit Colm, was also approached by the Lions who held a trial in Limerick during the summer.