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Sport Nation
Lions sign talented Irishman for 2026
SEN • November 3rd, 2025 3:08 pm
After adding Oscar Allen and Sam Draper to their list, the Lions have now broadened their horizons with the signing of 18-year-old Irishman Ben Murphy.
Having played for Austin Stacks and his county, Kerry, as a midfielder, Brisbane believes this experience will equip him to play a utility role for the back-to-back premiers.
Speaking to club media, the teenager is looking forward to making the journey across the world to play with the reigning premiers.
“I am really excited to get the chance to join the Brisbane Lions and play AFL,” Murphy said.
“I think anyone joining a team in the position the Lions are in, as back-to-back premiers, would be delighted and I am no different.”
And while he is expecting to make some adjustments to AFL, he is confident that he can follow in the footsteps of the likes of Mark O’Connor, who is also from the county of Kerry and his new Irish teammates in Connor McKenna and Darragh Joyce.
“AFL is similar enough to Gaelic, though I expect to face a few obstacles like getting used to a totally new ball - but I’m excited to face the challenge,” he explained.
“There have been a number of players make the switch like Conor (McKenna) and Darragh (Joyce) already at the club.
“But there are also a few other players that I aspire to be like back in Kerry like Mark O’Connor, Cillian Burke (Geelong) and I went to school with Rob Monahan (Carlton) as well.
“Seeing a person so close to you being successful really gives you the confidence that you can be too if you put your mind to it.
“I also hope to inspire other young players by showing them if you keep working hard you will get your opportunities too.”
Murphy will come onto the list as a Category B rookie.
