Aussie Rules holds no fears for Brophy

This time last year, Paddy Brophy was training in the wind and rain ahead of the O’Byrne Cup final.

Fast forward 12 months and while Kildare are back in the pre-season provincial decider, Brophy is learning a new game on hard pitches in the heat of a Perth summer.

It was a hammer blow to Kildare when the Celbridge man was signed by AFL club West Coast Eagles, while Sean Hurley joined rivals Fremantle.

Brophy was fast-tracked into the county seniors in his first year out of minor by Kieran McGeeney in 2013. Having made an impression in his first two seasons, he is now facing a new test ahead of a 21st birthday next month.

“The season is going to be a huge challenge,” Brophy admits. “I am really enjoying it. I had two months before I came home (for Christmas) and I enjoyed it. It is a hugely popular sport. I like being a full-time athlete.”

Brophy caused a stir at the AFL Combine when coming out on top in a ‘clean hands’ test, with a score of 26/30, while he also scored 25/30 in goal-kicking. The latter score was notable given his lack of familiarity with the oval ball but despite that, he will begin his career in the half-back line.

His first season will be spent with the Eagles’ feeder club East Perth, who compete in the WAFL.

“I am up for the challenge. In the two months I have been there I haven’t seen anything that frightens me.

“I feel even more confident now that I can make it. When you get involved in the set-up and get to know the other players and bond with the staff it all helps you progress.”