Newest Irish recruit arrives at the Cattery

GEELONG’s lates Irish recruit Cillian Burke has touched down in Australia and wasted no time in visiting his new home at GMHBA Stadium.

The talented Gaelic footballer officially signed on with the Cats as a Category B Rookie for the 2025 season a fortnight ago.

Burke follows in the footsteps of Mark O’Connor and Oisin Mullin who have made the trip from Ireland in recent years.

The County Kerry club star said he took great inspiration from Geelong’s strong Irish contingent when making his decision.

“When Mark O’Connor originally came over here, seeing him play in a Grand Final gave plenty of interest to people back home because he was a local.

“I met him and Oisin back at home when they were over there recently, seeing them play and especially Oisin cause he is closer in age, it shows a pathway to know you can follow them.

“He also got into the team this year, which was exciting, it was a journey that I could follow really.”

Burke is well regarded for his elite athleticism, speed and ball skills, traits he is looking forward to bringing to the Cats.

“At home I am an explosive kind of player with a strong running game, with pace and a fast player.

“The professionalism of the sport (AFL) stood out to me.

“Back home it is obviously an amateur sport and everything, but seeing the professionalism and the facilities here it is hard to get our head around.

“Everything with Geelong so far has been super smooth. It has been very good so far.”