19-year-old Aisake Ó hAilpín is to be unveiled as the Carlton Blues' new rookie signing tomorrow morning in Melbourne, joining his brother Setanta as a full-time Aussie Rules recruit.
Ó hAilpín, who helped Na Piarsaigh win the Cork hurling title in October, has impressed coach Denis Pagan in recent training sessions, so much so that the 6' 6" teenager will be included in the international draft on December 14.
AFL policy means that overseas players and those unregistered for Aussie Rules competition for five years, have to be included on the draft list by tomorrow - December 3.
Aisake's decision to relocate to Australia to pursue a professional Aussie Rules career means the Blues can sign him on a one-year deal. They would have had to commit to him for two years if he was listed as an 'international rookie'.
Pagan commented last month of Aisake: "He's certainly at the right age, two years younger that Setanta and he's certainly at the right height.
"There is no doubt he will have to put some weight on and who knows what can happen? He's an elite athlete in his chosen sport at home and he's ready to go on the big stage and it's a real opportunity for us," he added.
As well as starring for his club, Aisake has also played minor hurling with Cork and was expected to make his senior debut next year.
Just twelve months ago, Carlton took the opportunity to sign Setanta, 21, and despite injuring his foot in the summer, a strong pre-season could see the 2003 Hurler of the Year in senior contention when the Blues begin their Premiership season next March.
