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The group of participants at DCU. Ryan Byrne/INPHO
afl combine

The 20 young Irish hopefuls who've been chasing an AFL contract over the last two days

Kerry’s Pat Spillane and Kilkenny’s Darragh Joyce among those hoping to impress scouts.

THE FIFTH ANNUAL AFL Draft Combine has concluded in Dublin after 20 young GAA players were put through their paces in a quest to impress watching scouts.

The two-day intensive testing sessions were conducted by AFL International Talent Manager and All-Ireland winner Tadhg Kennelly at Dublin City University.

Kerry’s Pat Spillane and Darragh Joyce of Kilkenny were among the hopefuls with participants tested in various disciplines including agility, vertical jump, endurance, speed and skills.

Joyce, who spent time in Australia earlier this year but didn’t sign a deal with any club, is hoping to put himself back on the radar this time around.

Two athletes will now be selected to attend the 2016 AFL Draft Combine at Melbourne’s Ethiad Stadium next September where scouts will be keeping a keen eye on fledging stars.

The AFL Combine is part of the league’s international search for elite talent from a variety of sporting backgrounds with drafts held around the world.

Tipperary dual-star Colin O’Riordan was picked-up by the Sydney Swans in October while Laois’ Zach Tuohy has forged a successful career down under.

Darragh Joyce Kilkenny's Darragh Joyce. Ryan Byrne / INPHO Ryan Byrne / INPHO / INPHO

Tadhg Kennelly Tadhg Kennelly oversees the session earlier. Ryan Byrne / INPHO Ryan Byrne / INPHO / INPHO

Pat Spillane Pat Spillane in action. Ryan Byrne / INPHO Ryan Byrne / INPHO / INPHO

Thomas Galligan and Darragh Joyce Thomas Galligan and Darragh Joyce. Ryan Byrne / INPHO Ryan Byrne / INPHO / INPHO

Tadhg Kennelly Kennelly during yesterday's indoor session. Ryan Byrne / INPHO Ryan Byrne / INPHO / INPHO

David Brady David Brady in full flow. Ryan Byrne / INPHO Ryan Byrne / INPHO / INPHO

Bryan Sweeney Bryan Sweeney put through his paces. Ryan Byrne / INPHO Ryan Byrne / INPHO / INPHO

Daniel O'Reilly Daniel O'Reilly in the vertical jump test. Ryan Byrne / INPHO Ryan Byrne / INPHO / INPHO

Tony Kelly: ‘Players will be buzzing going back in trying to impress Donal Óg’

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