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13th March 2024
09:54am GMT
Two GAA stars have taken a "crucial step" in achieving their dreams of playing American Football at a professional level and competing in the National Football League (NFL).
Rory Beggan, Charlie Smyth and Darragh Leader have been out in the USA competing in NFL combines, and what started off as a nice story about some Irish lads doing well in trials, is turning into an incredible tale of Gaelic footballers becoming pro athletes in the states.
According to NFL reporter Michael McQuaid, the two Gaels have taken a "crucial step" by signing with a well-respected agent in the field.
"Rory Beggan, Charlie Smyth and Darragh Leader have signed to NFL agent Paul Sheehy at Pro Star Sports, per source. This is a crucial step for the players - the agency also manages players such as Harrison Butker, Alex Singleton and Cairo Santos, among others."
Beggan is the player with the highest profile given his years of service to Monaghan as their goalkeeper, and one of the first in that position to become a hybrid player in the sense that you would often see him up joining the attack, just as much as you would in his own goal.
At 31 years of age, and well over a decade of service to his county at the highest level under his belt, most athletes would be on the decline, but it appears that Beggan is only beginning his real sporting journey.
The Scotstown native is famed for his booming kick-outs, and ability to score outrageous points from deadball situations, so when the opportunity came for him to try himself as a kicker in the American sport, he has grabbed it with both hands.
Charlie Smyth, a student teacher from County Down, finished his placement at St Patrick’s College earlier this year, but if all goes according to plan, then he might never teach another class again.
The 22-year-old from Mayobridge had been tipped to become a fine goalkeeper for the Mourne county, showcasing his talent when he helped his u20 team win an Ulster title two years ago.
However, the goalposts have moved for the multi-talented athlete, and now, alongside Beggan, former Irish Rugby Union star Darragh Leader, this signing with NFL agent Paul Sheehy, means that those new goals are within their grasp.
Wicklow's Mark Jackson has also been performing well in the trials and is still has a chance of achieving his American dream also.
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