Kerry’s Mark O’Connor signs new two-year deal with Geelong

The Dingle native won an AFL Premiership title in 2022.

MAN AT WORK: Mark O'Connor of Dingle, who has signed a new deal with AFL side Geelong. Pic: Seb Daly/Sportsfile

Kerry’s Mark O’Connor has agreed a new two-year deal that will see him stay in the AFL with Geelong Cats until at least 2028.

The club announced on Monday that the Dingle All-Ireland winner, who is currently in his 10th AFL season, has signed a contract that means hopes of a return to play for Kerry are on hold for now.

There was speculation throughout the winter that the All-Ireland minor winner may return to Jack O’Connor’s side after winning Kerry SFC, Munster SFC and All-Ireland club titles.

The 29-year-old won an AFL Premiership title in 2022.

“Mark’s been an important player for us for a long time now, he consistently plays the roles required of him and brings experience that sets a strong example for the group,” said Andrew Mackie, General Manager of football.

Last January, O’Connor helped his club Dingle to a remarkable triumph over St Brigid’s in Croke Park.

There are 14 Irish players in the AFL this season. Another in Mayo’s Kobe McDonald is due to arrive next month.

Elsewhere, Cork’s Mark Keane enjoyed a terrific return from injury against Melbourne at Adelaide Oval. It was his first AFL appearance of the season after he suffered a horrific ankle injury in pre-season. Adelaide secured a 17-point win.

The star defender finished with 22 disposals, 12 pressure acts, 10 marks, nine intercepts, five tackles and three spoils. His performance had him ranked as the highest player on the field by Champion Data.