Post by earl on Jul 1, 2008 16:43:29 GMT
PLAYER agent Ricky Nixon's talks with Ireland's Gaelic body have opened the door for an AFL academy to be held near Dublin in August.
Described as a showdown by the Irish press in the lead up to last night's meeting, Nixon last night had discussions with Gaelic Athletic Association president Nicky Brennan and GAA director general Paraic Duffy.
The GAA was concerned about the player drain to the AFL, but Nixon and the GAA have agreed to work together to ensure a professional process was in place in regards to AFL clubs recruiting Irish talent.
Five clubs - Brisbane, Geelong, St Kilda, Richmond and North Melbourne - have paid $30,000 to be part of the academy.
It's possible other AFL clubs and/or player agents in pursuit of Irish players will have to register their interest with the GAA and seek permission from individual clubs to talk to their players.
Nixon, who arrived in Ireland on Thursday, has already contacted close to 25 of the country's best young gaelic players who have committed to attending the August camp.
Nixon feared a backlash from GAA officials last night, but said he was satisfied with the outcome.
"Clearly, they have some concerns, they voiced them and I accept them," Nixon said.
"But they were, I think, pleased I was upfront about what I'm doing and an ongoing process will put in place for everyone involved.
"They don't want to see a massive drain out of Ireland and I accept that, but at the same time, there certainly can't be zero movement of young men wanting to play AFL.
"More importantly, the players we've identified have talent and, we think, have a better than 50 per cent chance of making it to the AFL."
The AFL had urged the GAA to speak with Nixon and are supportive of Nixon's plan.
"We spoke openly and honestly about what I'm doing and they accept they can't stop players leaving Ireland, but for the sake of the clubs and everybody involved, their game will be protected as best it can," Nixon said.
"We've planned to meet during the International Series in October with the AFL.
"In the meantime, I will outline my plans in writing and they can discuss them internally.
"They are more than happy to set up the academy."
Chris Dennis, who worked in fitness and strengthening with Geelong, and who is currently involved with the Irish rugby union team, will be employed at Nixon's academy.
Joe Begley, the brother of Brisbane's Colm Begley, has been appointed general manager of recruiting in Ireland.
At the week-long camp, the players will undergo physical and psychological testing and watch presentations from each of the AFL clubs.
Described as a showdown by the Irish press in the lead up to last night's meeting, Nixon last night had discussions with Gaelic Athletic Association president Nicky Brennan and GAA director general Paraic Duffy.
The GAA was concerned about the player drain to the AFL, but Nixon and the GAA have agreed to work together to ensure a professional process was in place in regards to AFL clubs recruiting Irish talent.
Five clubs - Brisbane, Geelong, St Kilda, Richmond and North Melbourne - have paid $30,000 to be part of the academy.
It's possible other AFL clubs and/or player agents in pursuit of Irish players will have to register their interest with the GAA and seek permission from individual clubs to talk to their players.
Nixon, who arrived in Ireland on Thursday, has already contacted close to 25 of the country's best young gaelic players who have committed to attending the August camp.
Nixon feared a backlash from GAA officials last night, but said he was satisfied with the outcome.
"Clearly, they have some concerns, they voiced them and I accept them," Nixon said.
"But they were, I think, pleased I was upfront about what I'm doing and an ongoing process will put in place for everyone involved.
"They don't want to see a massive drain out of Ireland and I accept that, but at the same time, there certainly can't be zero movement of young men wanting to play AFL.
"More importantly, the players we've identified have talent and, we think, have a better than 50 per cent chance of making it to the AFL."
The AFL had urged the GAA to speak with Nixon and are supportive of Nixon's plan.
"We spoke openly and honestly about what I'm doing and they accept they can't stop players leaving Ireland, but for the sake of the clubs and everybody involved, their game will be protected as best it can," Nixon said.
"We've planned to meet during the International Series in October with the AFL.
"In the meantime, I will outline my plans in writing and they can discuss them internally.
"They are more than happy to set up the academy."
Chris Dennis, who worked in fitness and strengthening with Geelong, and who is currently involved with the Irish rugby union team, will be employed at Nixon's academy.
Joe Begley, the brother of Brisbane's Colm Begley, has been appointed general manager of recruiting in Ireland.
At the week-long camp, the players will undergo physical and psychological testing and watch presentations from each of the AFL clubs.
