Lake star rises above abuse

The rising Westmeath star caught at the centre of a racial storm last year insists he will never strike out in retaliation to abuse.

Aussie Rules target Israel Ilunga played in the 2013 Leinster minor final after a red card picked up in the semi-final win over Meath was dismissed following allegations of racism.

Ilunga fled war-torn Congo with his family as a nine-year old and now lives with his sister and an Irish family in Castletown, Westmeath. The 18-year-old is considering a university scholarship and revealed how his foster family have taught him to deal with racial comments during games.