As one of the great Irish AFL careers ends, others will soon begin theirs

Kerry forward Cillian Burke has been linked with a move to the AFL for months. It is understood that process is still ongoing and Geelong are confident he will join.

FAREWELL: Zach Tuohy of the Cats is seen with sons Flynn and Rafferty as he salutes the crowd on a lap of honour during the 2024 AFL Round 24 match between the Geelong and the West Coast Eagles. Picture: Michael Willson/AFL Photos via Getty Images

Professional sport always finds a new way to underline its innate brutality. For Irish AFL legend Zach Tuohy, an incredible career came to an end last weekend as Geelong lost out on a spot in the Grand Final while he was helpless to prevent it.

Brisbane ran out 10-point victors in a thriller. Post-match, Geelong coach Chris Scott had to deal with the demons. He had left out veterans Tom Hawkins and Tuohy for the contest.