The AFL has appointed Irishman Tadhg Kennelly as a league ambassador to help foster the development of young talent from overseas.
The 30-year-old defender, who quit playing in September 2011 after a career that included Sydney's 2005 premiership, will be an assistant coach and mentor for the AIS-AFL Academy level two squad under head coach Michael O'Loughlin.
Kennelly will also coach the Under 16 NSW/ACT team and will be an assistant coach for Under 18 NSW/ACT team in the national championships.
The 197-game veteran's new role includes mentoring players who come to Australia aspiring to play AFL at the highest level, including players from the Under 16 World XVIII and South Pacific teams.
"There are now more than 100,000 people playing our game throughout the world and with that comes a growing pool of talent," AFL international development manager Tony Woods said on Thursday.
"We hope to create a clearer pathway for international players and Tadhg's life experiences playing AFL at the highest level will be invaluable to young players."
Kennelly said he was keen to take on coaching and mentoring responsibilities.
"I know from my own experience what it is like to learn new skills, understand a different language and overcome homesickness," he said.
AAP
Tags: australian-football-league, sport, melbourne-3000, vic, australia First posted December 08, 2011 18:44:45
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