Essendon has confirmed the signing of 19-year-old Irish prospect Cillian Bourke as a Category B Rookie for the next two seasons.
Hailing from County Offaly in the Republic of Ireland, Bourke makes the code switch as one of the gaelic game’s most touted young prospects – even named as his county’s Best Under 20 Player last season.
At 190cm, Bourke’s physicality and athleticism translate well to the AFL landscape. Pundits and peers in Ireland have lauded his ability to kick on both sides as a left footer and break lines with his run and carry, positioning him as a potential utility option for the Dons.
Bourke first visited Australia back in September to participate in the AFL Draft Combine, having been training in Dublin throughout the year in anticipation of tryouts with clubs.
On deck training with the group as of this week, Bourke is already lapping up every moment of his new career.
“It’s pretty special to be here, and I can’t wait to further experience the professional AFL life,” Bourke said.
“I first got involved in AFL around July last year. I was contacted to do a couple of sessions in Dublin with some boys who had links to Australia, and after some testing everything started to fall into place.
“It’s been great getting to know the boys and get stuck into main training. I'm an athletic player and can cover the field up and down, and I’ve got good leg speed and I back myself to be solid on both feet.
“I’m really looking forward to pushing forward and hopefully becoming one of the Ireland success stories.”
GM – List and Recruiting Matt Rosa sees Bourke as a potential high-ceiling signing for the Club going forward.
“It’s awesome to be bringing Cillian aboard to kick off his career as an AFL player,” Rosa said.
“From his tryouts abroad and his efforts at the Combine this year, Cillian really stood out to our recruiting team as someone who could transition to footy well and provide a great point of difference for us.
“His speed, power and agility are obvious high-end traits, but his foot skills and the ability to read the gaelic game as well as he does will give him a good base to work with.
“We’re super excited to welcome him into the program. The boys will be quick to get around him and make him feel at home.”
