Martin Clarke underwent a five-week trial with the AFL club

The 18-year-old has agreed a two-year professional contract with top AFL outfit Collingwood with an option for a third season.

The An Riocht clubman impressed the AFL club in a recent five-week trial Down Under and he is expected to travel to Australia in the next few weeks.

Recent recruits to the AFL game include Setanta O hAilpin and Colm Begley.

Former Kerry player Tadgh Kennelly has been the most prominent convert to Australian Rules Football in recent years.

Clarke said that the "brilliant lifestyle" had been the key factor in his decision to move to Australia.

"You work hard but you are bettering yourself while you do it," Clarke told BBC Newsline.

It's encouraging for me to see that it can be done Martin Clarke

"That's your job, that's what you get paid for and that feels good. It feels good to be a professional athlete."

Former Kerry player Tadgh Kennelly has been the most prominent convert to Australian Rules Football in recent years and Clarke has been encouraged by his fellow Irishman's success.

"Tadgh is an excellent player and Setanta (O hAilpin) is coming on and Colm Begley made his debut last week.

"It's encouraging for me to see that it can be done."

Down underage star Clarke underwent tests for speed skills and fitness at Loughborough University earlier this year before being invited to spend five weeks Down Under.

Clarke helped Down win the All-Ireland minor football title last year and played in the St Louis Kilkeel teams beaten in the last two MacRory Cup finals.

The An Riocht youngster produced a wonderful display in this year's MacRory decided but he ended up on the losing side when Abbey CBS notched an injury-time goal.