Rising Mayo star Kobe McDonald has joined AFL club St Kilda as a Category B rookie.

McDonald and Kerry prospect Ben Murphy have both been linked with moves Down Under in recent weeks, with Murphy also penning a deal to play with Brisbane Lions as a Category B rookie.

McDonald, who is the son of Mayo great Ciaran, had some superb displays for his club Crossmolina Deel Rovers in recently helping them reach the Mayo SFC semi-finals where they lost out to Westport in extra time, with their teenage star scoring 0-10 in the defeat.

He is now set to complete the switch to the AFL after he finishes his Leaving Cert next year.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Kobe and the McDonald family to St Kilda,” St Kilda CEO Carl Dilena told the club's website.

“Kobe’s natural abilities have been evident for some time, and his experience playing Gaelic football will provide a great foundation for his transition to AFL.

“We’ve seen the impact Irish players can make in our game, and we’re looking forward to supporting Kobe as he begins his journey with the club.”

Welcome to the Den Ben! 🦁 https://t.co/jv3zNiobUh

— Brisbane Lions (@brisbanelions) November 3, 2025

As for Murphy, he joins Brisbane Lions for the 2026 AFL season and is set to link up with fellow Irishmen Conor McKenna (Tyrone) and Darragh Joyce (Kilkenny) in Australia.

“I am really excited to get the chance to join the Brisbane Lions and play AFL,” Murphy is quoted saying by www.lions.com.au.

“I think anyone joining a team in the position the Lions are in, as back-to-back premiers, would be delighted and I am no different.”

 

 

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