Mayo GAA have paid tribute to Crossmolina man Kobe McDonald ahead of his Australian adventure.
The 18-year-old wrapped up a fairytale debut season of senior football, playing a monumental role in Mayo’s first All-Ireland Football title in 75 years.
The stellar season came just weeks before McDonald’s move to Australia, where he would join Melbourne AFL team, St Kilda’s.
The 18-year-old embarks on his journey to the other side of the world on Thursday, with Mayo GAA leading the well wishes.
Taking to X on Wednesday, the official account for Mayo GAA shared a video montage of the youngster’s highlights.
‘Everybody involved with Mayo GAA would like to wish Kobe McDonald all the best on his next adventure in Australia,’ the county team wrote.
‘It has been some few months. Thanks Kobe.’
Fellow social media users shared the post, extending their own messages of support.
One wrote: ‘What a kid. Born to be a star. He made us dream this summer. Hope he smashes it over there. Come back for no.2 some day.’
🔴🟢 Everybody involved with Mayo GAA would like to wish Kobe McDonald all the best on his next adventure in Australia.
It has been some few months. Thanks Kobe 👆 #mayogaa #gaa pic.twitter.com/fHXS2T7m2h
— Mayo GAA (@MayoGAA) August 5, 2026
Another said: ‘Safe travels Kobe thank you for everything this year with Mayo you and the team have made people’s entire lives.
‘Thanks also for your time with my two young lads in Johnstown House before the semi-final (the kids with chocolate all over their face!!!’
A third pleaded: ‘Look after him @stkildafc.’
AFL report that McDonald will join up with St Kilda’s on Friday before attending their home game against Carlton on Sunday morning Irish time.
The fixture is scheduled for the 56,000-seat Marvel Stadium.
The Australian AFL team are similarly trying to end their own drought — they haven’t won the AFL Grand Final since 1966.
