Mayo's Kobe McDonald signs with St Kilda while Kerry's Ben Murphy joins Brisbane Lions
HAMMER BLOW: Kobe McDonald is attracting the attention of the AFL. Pic: Sam Barnes/Sportsfile
Mayo rising prospect Kobe McDonald has signed for St Kilda's in Melbourne while Kerry's Ben Murphy has joined the Brisbane Lions
The Crossmolina Deel Rovers clubman, who produced several standout performances in his debut senior season this year, has been linked with a move Down Under in recent months.
Gaelic prodigy Kobe McDonald has joined the Saints as a Category B rookie from County Mayo 🍀🇮🇪
— St Kilda FC (@stkildafc) November 3, 2025
Welcome to the red, white and black, Kobe! pic.twitter.com/V3Xg9hEJRN
It is understood McDonald made the trip to Melbourne earlier this year and is set to sign with a view to joining a club after he completes his Leaving Cert. The deal is expected to be announced within the coming week.
The 17-year-old midfielder is the son of county legend Ciarán McDonald. A 2004 All-Star, McDonald won four Connacht titles during his playing career before going on to coach Mayo. He was a selector on the team that reached an All-Ireland final in 2021.
Kobe McDonald recently scored 1-5 in a Man of the Match televised display against Belmullet in the Mayo SFC quarter-final. He was part of the Connacht minor winning side last year.
It is a big blow for Mayo who saw Pearce Hanley depart for Australia in 2007. He went on to enjoy a remarkable career, playing 169 games across spells with the Brisbane Lions and Gold Coast.
Welcome to the Den Ben! 🦁 https://t.co/jv3zNiobUh
— Brisbane Lions (@brisbanelions) November 3, 2025
Kerry U20 Murphy will move to Brisbane having travelled out for a trial in August. The 18-year- old Austin Stacks club man recently scored 0-3 from midfield in the Kerry SFC final but is now on the cusp of becoming the latest Irish player to join the Lions. Kilkenny’s Darragh Joyce and Tyrone’s Conor McKenna are currently on the list.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
