Dubliner impresses at AFL combine, Derry star set to return to club action
David Colbert arrives ahead of the U20 Six Nations clash with France. Pic: Dan Sheridan/Inpho
Ireland U20 rugby international and former Dublin minor David Colbert impressed at the AFL Draft Combine in Australia, finishing in the top 10 for 20m sprint and standing vertical jump.
The testing took place last weekend. Colbert and Derry defender Eoin McEvoy travelled to Melbourne after excelling at the Dublin-based kicking sessions earlier this year.
In 2023, four Irish players took part in the combine. It involves several physical assessments including a 2km time trial and agility test alongside other Australian prospects. The Irish pair also visited several clubs over the course of the week.
In July, Colbert represented Ireland in the U20 Rugby World Cup.
The Kilmacud Crokes man stood out as a Dublin minor in 2021 as well. He started at wing-back in the Leinster final defeat to Meath that season.
Colbert clocked 2.965 in the 20m sprint and hit 71cm in the standing vertical jump. Both placed him inside the top 10 for those categories.
McEvoy, who was scored 2-2 during an enthralling league final against Dublin last March and was nominated for an All-Star in 2023, was unavailable for his club Magherafelt as they competed in the Derry SFC quarter-final against Dungiven.
Their win means they take on Newbridge in this Saturday’s semi-final, live on
Speaking to Michael McMullan of Gaelic Life, Magherafelt joint manager Brian McGuckin confirmed that the Derry prospect is available for that game.
“Eoin McEvoy is back tomorrow (Monday), thank God,” he said. “He is going to be a massive addition to us obviously because he is a huge figure in the club.”
There is interest in several Irish prospects currently.
Fermanagh’s Ultan Kelm and Tyrone's Eoin McElholm travelled to Fremantle earlier this year for a trial. Geelong remain confident of securing Kerry prospect Cillian Burke.
CONNECT WITH US TODAY
Be the first to know the latest news and updates
