Conor McKenna has expressed his joy over the recent AFL Grand Final victory, a momentous achievement for the Eglish native as he celebrates with the Brisbane Lions. Coming off the bench during the final quarter, McKenna played a key role in the team’s impressive 120-60 win against the Sydney Swans at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground. This victory marks a historic milestone for McKenna, making him only the second player to secure both All-Ireland and AFL Premiership medals, a feat previously accomplished by Tadhg Kennelly.
The achievement adds McKenna to a distinguished list of Irish players in the AFL, as he becomes just the fourth Irishman to earn a Premiership title, joining the ranks of Kennelly, Mark O’Connor, and the recently retired Zach Tuohy. This win is particularly sweet for McKenna, who faced disappointment last year when the Lions narrowly lost to Collingwood in the Grand Final.
In an interview with Australia’s 7NEWS, McKenna, proudly draped in the Irish tricolor, reflected on the victory, stating, “It’s just crazy. It’s surreal. Still has to soak in properly but unbelievable.” After initially leaving the AFL in 2020 due to homesickness, McKenna returned to Gaelic football and celebrated a surprise All-Ireland victory with Tyrone in 2021. However, after a challenging subsequent season, he decided to rejoin the AFL with the Lions.
Despite facing injuries this season, McKenna was ready to contribute in the Grand Final, stepping in during the final quarter and making his mark as the Lions surged ahead. He expressed pride in the team’s journey, stating, “To be in two grand finals in two years, it’s crazy, and the club’s getting better.” His commitment extends to his family and home club, St Patrick’s GAC in Eglish, who have been incredibly supportive throughout his career.
McKenna is looking forward to returning to Ireland next week to celebrate his triumph with family and friends, including a small group of supporters who traveled from Ireland to witness the game. His home club publicly congratulated him on social media, acknowledging the significance of his achievement in the world of sports. Meanwhile, as McKenna gears up for the next AFL season, questions loom about the future of his close friend and teammate Joe Daniher, who hinted that he may consider retirement after an illustrious career. McKenna noted, “Joe doesn’t even know what he’ll do. He can just ride off into the sunset if he wants.”