Tadhg Kennelly has committed his long-term future to Australian Rules side Sydney Swans after signing a new three-year deal with the AFL champions, taking his time at the club to ten years.
The 25-year-old had considered a move back to his native Kerry following the death of his father Tim last year but has opted to pursue his career in the professional code.
Kennelly, the first Irish player to win an Australian title, has put pen to paper on a contract until 2009 after discussing the matter with his family. However, he still expects to return to Listowel at the end of his new deal.
"It was a very tough decision to make but I'm happy we have now resolved the next few years of my career," Kennelly explained. "There has been a lot of soul searching and it wasn't until I spent a few weeks with my mother and sister that I was able to finally commit to the club.
"But now I have it's a relief, I'm sticking with the Swans for now however ultimately I'll be heading back to Ireland."
Sydney coach Paul Roos said the club is delighted that Kennelly had come to terms with the club on a new deal.
"Certainly there are great pressures on Tadhg to return home to his family in Ireland and we fully understand those pressures but we are happy he has made the decision to stay for the present time," Kennelly said.
Kennelly, who joined the Swans in 1999 as a teenager, has made 119 appearances for the club.