Like Tadhg Kennelly before him, the lure of home has proved too much for Martin Clarke after he ended his three-year stay in Australia by announcing he will leave Collingwood to return home to pursue his studies in teaching.
The 21-year-old former Down All-Ireland minor winner was seen as the leading light of a younger generation of players recruited by AFL clubs in recent years, but he has decided not to pursue a new playing contract with the Melbourne club.
Clarke played 46 AFL games with the Magpies after arriving at the club he came to on a two-year international rookie contract.
He made his AFL debut in 2007 against Sydney after being temporarily elevated to the senior list due to a long-term injury, and earned a permanent spot on the senior list for the 2008 and 2009 seasons.
Clarke’s last AFL game was against Sydney in round 12 this year, and he was named as an emergency for the preliminary final against Geelong.
In an open letter to supporters, staff and colleagues, Clarke laid out his reasons for the decision.
“My decision to return home was not an easy one. But I simply miss my home and the people close to me too much. I also have a burning desire to be a teacher and I want to start that stage of my life as soon as possible.
“I am also looking forward to playing Gaelic football again. I strongly believe my best moments of my sporting life are ahead of me and at this stage and I want to show them on the GAA stage”.
Clarke also pointed out his frustration at losing out on his first-team place this season but thanked the club for the opportunity they gave him.
“The latter stages of this year were forgettable ones on a football level. I suppose the uncertainty in my mind didn’t help.
“I hope I provided the fans with some good memories and I would like to thank you for all your support”.
Collingwood chief of football Geoff Walsh thanked Clarke for his efforts in the famous black and white jersey and wished him all the best in the future.
“We sincerely thank Martin for his contribution and commitment to the Collingwood Football Club over the past three seasons”, said Walsh.
“He’s an outstanding talent who is very highly regarded by his peers and everyone at the club, and he will be missed.
“I’m sure Marty will be successful in his future endeavours, and on behalf of everyone at the club, I would like to wish him the very best back in Ireland,” he added.