The likelihood of GAA stars making it in the AFL is becoming rarer by the season, but when leaving Laois in 2009, Zach Tuohy could hardly envisage becoming the top Irish appearance maker in AFL history.
His career began with Carlton Blues where he made 120 appearances before moving to Geelong Cats in 2016. He announced today that he’ll bring the curtain down on his Aussie Rules career at the end of this season.
In 2023, he surpassed Jim Stynes impressive appearance record to standalone as the top Irish appearance maker, and this weekend will see him line out in the AFL for the 287th time when Carlton play West Coast Eagles.
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Tuohy and Kerryman Mark O’Connor became just the second and third Irish players to win the AFL premiership when Geelong claimed the 2022 title after Tadhg Kennelly achieved the feat with Sydney Swans in 2005. The proud Portlaoise man showed his love for home as he was seen carrying a Portlaoise flag when receiving his winners medal.
Zach Tuohy confirms retirement
Tuohy who played for his local club Portlaoise and also won a Leinster minor title with the O’Moore County before departing for Australia in 2009, confirmed the news this morning via social media.
I informed my team-mates yesterday that this will be my last as an AFL footie player
While there’s a lot of footy left to play this year, I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank you all for your support
Speaking in a video posted online by his club Geelong. He spoke glowingly about his time with the club:
I knew when I came to the Cats I was in a for a treat. I don’t think I fully appreciated how much of an incredible journey it was going to be.
There’s a lot of work left to do this year but I just wanted to thank you for everything. Geelong – the club and the city – has been incredible for me and my family.
I consider myself a Geelong person forever off the back of your support.
2024, that’ll do me. Thanks for everything.”
No doubt Laois manager Justin McNulty will be in contact with Tuohy over the coming months as they begin their preparation for 2025, but at the age of 34, chances of seeing him togging out in the blue and white of his native county are slim.
