GPA announces agreement with AFL players' body

The Gaelic Players Association (GPA) and their Aussie Rules counterparts, the AFL Players Association (AFLPA), have announced a player transition agreement to assist Irish players returning after a period in the Australian Football League.

The agreement will ensure that a wide range of development programmes is provided to players on their return home, including career advice, financial advice, and health and well-being support to assist with their reintegration into Gaelic Games or with their retirement from competitive sport.

This transition programme will be supported jointly by both players' bodies.

As part of their cooperation protocol, both associations aim to develop a joint transition programme for Irish players in the AFL and develop greater understanding of the particular needs of Irish players in the AFL.

Information will also be shared in relation to the particular needs of elite athletes and the creation of player development programmes.

Speaking about the launch of the joint player transition agreement, GPA chief executive Dessie Farrell said: "Following this significant agreement, the GPA is now in a position to work with the AFLPA to help support players returning to Ireland and Gaelic Games after a period in the AFL.

"I think it's vital that we recognise the challenges this transition poses for the Irish player by providing them with effective personal assistance.

"We are also looking forward to strengthening our relationship with the AFLPA on matters of mutual interest for our respective members."

AFLPA Player Development General Manager Steve Alessio added: "We are delighted to be able to announce this unique and groundbreaking agreement between the GPA and the AFLPA.

"We recognise that there is significant common ground between both bodies in regard to supporting our respective members with their off-field careers.

"However, we have also recognised that by working together we can ensure that a formal joint support structure is put in place for Irish players in the AFL.

"Players exiting the AFL already receive the benefits of the AFLPA player development programme and this new initiative extends the reach of support for players returning to Ireland."

Sydney's Premiership winner Tadhg Kennelly and St Kilda's Tommy Walsh, who played for Ireland in last weekend's International Rules opener against Australia, head the list of Irish players currently tied to AFL clubs.