Like Tadhg Kennelly did in 2009, many within Mayo GAA hold out hope that akin to the former Sydney Swans player, Pearce Hanley will one day return home to win an All-Ireland.
Hanley made the move to Australia with Brisbane Lions in 2007, making his debut a year later. He has since made a real name for himself in Aussie Rules. Last year, he was ranked as the 37th best player in the game.
The Ballaghaderreen could now be on the move within the AFL.
According to The Australian, Hanley is close to being traded to the Gold Coast Suns.
They say that the Lions and Suns have come to a mutual agreement over a deal and that Hanley has been 'wooed' by Gold Coast. It is also added that the 27-year-old is apparently 'tiring of playing in losing teams'. The Lions won only seven games in the last two seasons and so Hanley desires a move.
A move to Gold Coast would improve matters in that respect but only marginally. They've won 10 games over the last two years.
Hanley's agent Paul Connors had this to say about a possible move, which may include his brother Cian who's been at the club since 2014.
I think more than likely he’ll be there (at Brisbane) but trade month is a funny period.
He’s an extremely loyal young man and his brother plays at the club, so it would have to be something that enticed both parties for him to leave.
He hasn’t requested a trade and Brisbane hasn’t asked me to trade him. It’s a long way from happening.
Trading Hanley would help the Lions in rebuilding efforts. A new coach and football operations manager are set to be installed. A top 10 draft pick or younger midfielder would likely be acquired in exchange for the Irishman.
Hanley - who has three years of a four-year deal remaining with the Lions - is just off the back of two disappointing seasons. Last year was badly affected by injury and this season saw his lowest yet in terms of average disposals.
Picture credit: Ray McManus / SPORTSFILE
