Deal Confirmed: Sky Port Officially Reviews a Lucrative Deal Between Tim Kelly and Ulster Rugby as He Bids Goodbye to West Coast Eagles…
In a landmark move that has sent ripples through both Australian rules football and rugby union circles, Tim Kelly, the prominent midfielder from West Coast Eagles, has officially signed a lucrative four-year contract with Ulster Rugby. The news, confirmed by Sky Port early Tuesday morning, marks a dramatic career switch for the 30-year-old athlete, who now embarks on a bold new chapter in Northern Ireland.
After weeks of speculation, Kelly’s transition to rugby has been formally sealed, with sources close to the negotiations describing the deal as “unprecedented” in both financial scope and athletic ambition. It is understood that the contract includes performance-based incentives and potential leadership responsibilities within the Ulster squad, positioning Kelly not just as a player, but as a key figure in the club’s long-term vision.
A respected name in the AFL, Kelly has built a reputation for his explosive pace, field awareness, and unrelenting work ethic. Originally drafted by Geelong in 2017 before transferring to West Coast in 2020, Kelly became a fan favourite, known for his commitment and consistency. However, as he revealed in an emotional farewell press conference, the allure of testing himself in a completely new sporting arena proved too compelling to resist.
“This isn’t goodbye to footy entirely, but it’s time for a new challenge,” Kelly said, standing beside his now-former teammates. “Ulster presented an opportunity that was too unique to pass up. The chance to play at Kingspan Stadium, to be part of a culture as rich and passionate as Ulster’s, it just felt right.”
Sources say that Kelly has been quietly training in rugby fundamentals over the past several months under the guidance of both private coaches and former rugby internationals. While the transition from AFL to rugby is rare, Kelly’s athletic profile — including his endurance, spatial intelligence, and physical resilience — could allow him to thrive in a backline or utility role within Ulster’s structure.
Ulster Rugby’s head coach, Dan McFarland, expressed enthusiasm about the signing. “We are thrilled to welcome Tim to Belfast. He’s an elite athlete with an incredible mindset. We believe he has the tools to adapt quickly and make a real impact. This is an exciting moment not just for Ulster, but for rugby in general.”
Kelly’s final moments with the Eagles were filled with emotion. Players formed a guard of honour at the team’s training ground as he walked off for the last time, receiving hugs and well wishes from teammates, coaches, and staff.
As Kelly prepares to relocate to Ireland in the coming weeks, attention now turns to how he will adapt to the fast-paced, physical demands of professional rugby. For the athlete himself, however, the message is clear.
“This is the beginning of something new. I’m ready to give everything I’ve got.”
With both fans and critics watching closely, Tim Kelly’s next chapter promises to be one of the most intriguing cross-sport experiments in recent memory.
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