Category B Rookie Kobe McDonald has touched down in Australia to join his new teammates at St Kilda, spending his first day at the club on Friday. 

The 18-year-old signed a contract with the Saints last year but committed to finishing his Leaving Cert at home and playing this season in the GAA before relocating to Melbourne. 

McDonald was a member of the County Mayo team which won its first All-Ireland title in 75 years in front of 82,000 fans at Croke Park last month. 

“Everyone at the club was certainly invested in following Kobe’s journey through the GAA finals," St Kilda General Manager of Football Lenny Hayes said.

"The scenes when Mayo won the All-Ireland Championship were incredible to watch from afar, and we’re thrilled for Kobe that he was able to bring so much joy to his county.

“Our expectations for Kobe in the short term are quite modest. The priority is helping him settle into Melbourne, build strong relationships at the club and give him the time and support to adapt to a completely new sport.

"We're excited by the attributes he brings, but we also recognise the transition from Gaelic football to AFL takes time.

"We’ll be patient and allow him to gradually integrate into our program."

McDonald is one of three Irish talents on St Kilda's list, joining Liam O'Connell and Eamonn Armstrong at RSEA Park.