Armagh starlet Dyas to embark on Aussie Rules career

Armagh's Kevin Dyas has signed a two-year rookie contract with Australian Rules club Collingwood to become the latest young Gaelic footballer to try his luck in the AFL.

The 19-year-old from Dromintee had a successful four-week trial with the Melbourne-based side last month, working with Collingwood assistant coaches Alan Richardson, Brad Scott and Blake Caracella.

Collingwood already has an Irish player on their books - Down youngster Martin Clarke had a debut AFL season to remember in 2007, becoming a regular member of the Magpies' first team and gaining himself a Rising Star nomination.

Dyas has already broken into the Armagh senior panel but incredibly he did not join a GAA club until just six years ago.

He grew up playing soccer for Barcroft in the Carnbane District League in Newry before his parents moved house to Dromintee. He was a Hogan Cup winner with Abbey CBS last year.

The teenager admitted that in accepting the AFL contract so quickly "there was no point wasting my time", and added that he is going to give the move "his best shot".

Dyas, who will be pre-listed by Collingwood as an international rookie, impressed his new club's coaching staff during his trial Down Under.

Collingwood recruiting manager Derek Hine said: "A few of the coaches have commented to me that Kevin's a bit ahead of where Marty was at the same time, but they're pretty similar players."