Irish footballers are making an increasing impression in the AFL, and Sports Ireland has another developing St Kilda story to follow. While Mayo teenager Kobe McDonald has attracted plenty of attention since moving to Australia, Meath’s Eamonn Armstrong is quietly building his own path while helping his younger teammate settle into life Down Under.
Armstrong returns home and makes an impact
Armstrong joined St Kilda in 2025 after completing his Leaving Certificate and has spent the past year adapting to the demands of professional Australian rules football. The 20-year-old has not yet made his senior AFL debut, but his development has continued steadily.
His temporary return to Meath offered a reminder of the Gaelic football talent that first brought him to St Kilda’s attention. Armstrong scored 2-2 for Duleek-Bellewstown in their intermediate championship quarter-final victory over Clann na nGael, putting his club within reach of a county final appearance.
St Kilda allowed both Armstrong and McDonald to return to their home clubs during the recent GAA period. McDonald’s campaign ended when Crossmolina suffered a surprise defeat to Garrymore, while Armstrong remains in contention with Duleek-Bellewstown.
Irish connection strengthens St Kilda’s AFL pathway
Armstrong and McDonald have developed a close bond since the Mayo player’s move to Melbourne was confirmed. Having already experienced the challenges of relocating from Ireland, Armstrong has been able to offer practical support as McDonald begins a similar journey.
Speaking about their relationship, Armstrong described himself as something of a “big brother” to the younger player. He explained that having another Irish voice around the club has made the transition easier and that McDonald’s achievements with Mayo had made a strong impression.
That connection is particularly valuable in a sport and country that can feel unfamiliar to a young Gaelic footballer. The pair can share advice on training, life away from home and the patience required to earn an AFL opportunity.
Why club GAA remains important to both players
The decision to let the two players return for club championship action also highlights the continuing link between the AFL and Gaelic football in Ireland. For players who began their sporting journeys in local clubs, representing those teams remains an important part of their identity.
Armstrong said St Kilda understood how much it meant to play for the clubs that had supported them from childhood. That goodwill allows the players to maintain their connection with their communities while continuing their long-term professional development in Australia.
- Club GAA keeps both players connected to family, teammates and local supporters.
- Competitive matches provide valuable game time during their development.
- The experience can strengthen confidence before a return to the AFL environment.
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What comes next for Armstrong and McDonald?
Both players are now working towards the same ambition: making an AFL breakthrough with St Kilda. Armstrong has had to wait for his chance at senior level, but his progress over the last year will give him encouragement as he targets a possible opportunity in 2027.
McDonald, meanwhile, is likely to need further physical development before he is considered for AFL selection. However, his reputation at the club is already strong, and the support of an established Irish teammate could prove valuable during the next stage of his transition.
Their situations also underline the patience required for Irish players adapting to the AFL system. Moving from Gaelic football to Australian rules involves changes in tactical demands, physical preparation and playing style. Progress is not always measured by senior selection alone.
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The wider significance for Irish football
The presence of two Irish players at the same AFL club provides a useful support network and another example of how Gaelic football talent can travel internationally. Their progress will be followed closely by supporters in Meath, Mayo and beyond, particularly as both continue to balance their Australian ambitions with their home-club commitments.
For now, Armstrong’s immediate focus is on Duleek-Bellewstown’s championship campaign. After that, attention will return to Melbourne, where he and McDonald will look to turn promising development into senior AFL opportunities.
Article/Image Courtesy: Balls.ie
