Indigenous team ‘a once-off’

Australian coach Michael O’Loughlin believes the Indigenous All Stars are unlikely to represent Australia again after this year’s International Rules series.

The former Sydney Swans player said he was unaware of speculation at home that an indigenous selection may face off against an AFL All Star team to see who would go forward to face Ireland.

“From my understanding this is a one-off and the opportunity to be able to put the team together, select it, travel over to Ireland and play is something we would have never thought would have happened.

“The powers-that-be at AFL Headquarters made the decision to do this but the big push was from the players. They were the instigators of getting this together. (They’re) absolutely rapped and thrilled to be able to do that.

“If it happened again it would be brilliant,” added O’Loughlin. “We are looking at this as our shot and we have to make the most of it. We have done everything in our powers to prepare to get ready for this game.”