Begley aims for long career in Australia
Laois footballer Colm Begley has spoken of his determination to “make a career” out of his switch to Aussie Rules football.
The 19-year-old Stradbally defender, who began his rookie life at AFL club Brisbane Lions last week alongside Timahoe midfielder Brendan Quigley, is in his first full week of training Down Under.
The midlands pair, who won All-Ireland minor medals with Laois in 2003, signed two-year contracts with Brisbane last month.
Begley said: “My goal is to be here for six or eight years and make a career out of this.
“It was a big decision to live so far from home, but I made a decision to come here and try my best. I’ll go through good times and bad times, but the club has been great,” he told the Melbourne Herald Sun.
Quigley conceded: “I have two years to prove myself. A lot can happen in two years and hopefully we'll be listed (as seniors).
“At home, I have to get up and be at work as an apprentice carpenter. Here, I get up in the morning and be a professional footballer. It’s good to be training all day and get the best out of yourself. Even if I don't make it here, I’d only be 21 when I go home - a win-win situation.
“I get to go home for Christmas, and for eight weeks after the season.”
