Australia-bound Kenny claims O'Connor Cup success

Offaly dual star Kate Kenny is embarking on a new sporting adventure after she signed for AFWL outfit, the Geelong Cats.

News of Kenny joining the Irish exodus to Australia emerged last week and the Ferbane woman then helped DCU Dóchas Éireann to retain their O’Connor Cup title with an extra-time victory over UCC on Saturday.

The talented Naomh Ciarán player scored 1-3 (1-2 from play) in the Dublin side's 2-16 to 2-14 win at MTU Cork. Róisín Ennis from Ballycumber was also on the successful DCU Dóchas Éireann team.

Kenny will have Irish company with Geelong as Mayo’s Rachael Kearns and Tipperary duo Aishling Moloney and Anna Rose Kennedy are already with the Cats.

Geelong assistant general manager of football, Brett Johnson said of Kenny's signing: “Kate has been a standout athlete in both Gaelic football and camogie, and we’ve had our eye on her for some time. We’re thrilled to be able to bring an athlete of her calibre to GMHBA Stadium.

“Her prowess in multiple sports speaks volumes about her abilities, and we’re eager to witness her seamless transition into AFLW.

“With Kate’s signing, we have finalised our list for 2024, and we look forward to welcoming the squad back for pre-season in June to build on a successful 2023 season," he added.

Kenny was chosen LGFA Player of the Month award for March 2023, after scoring 1-10 in an outstanding display against University of Limerick in the O’Connor Cup final. She was also chosen on the 2023 Ladies HEC All Star selection.

Kate played a starring role in Naomh Ciarán's All-Ireland intermediate football crown in 2019, and she also won an All-Ireland intermediate camogie title with St Rynagh's. Indeed, the 22-year-old has won numerous honours with both Naomh Ciarán and St Rynagh's.

In addition to Kenny signing for Geelong, Dublin All-Ireland winner and Leitrim native Eilish O’Dowd has signed a rookie contract with the GWS (Greater Western Sydney) Giants.