Irish Experiment by Zach Tuohy

Whether it’s committing to a tackle, being a dad or writing a memoir, if Zach Tuohy goes in, he goes ‘all in’

Like most Irishmen, Zach Tuohy’s first love was Gaelic football. But when an Australian football club came knocking with a professional contract, the then-seventeen-year-old leapt at the opportunity to travel across the world and come to grips with an oval ball.

Despite a rocky start navigating a Carlton Football Club in disarray and becoming a father at twenty-three, Zach went on to become one of the greatest success stories of the ‘Irish Experiment’. A move to the Geelong Cats made him a star rebounding defender and cult favourite player, and in 2022 he reached the pinnacle of his adopted code, winning a Premiership medal. In 2023, Zach set a new record for the number of AFL games played by an Irish player, passing the effort of the great Jim Stynes.

With characteristic devil-may care attitude and determination, Zach writes candidly about his experiences in Australia, recounting the good, the bad and the downright hilarious. He has plenty to say about the relationships between the indigenous codes of GAA and the AFL, and what needs to change secure the future of Irish and Australian footballers alike.

A funny and candid memoir from the Irish AFL games record holder, Zach Tuohy (with a lot to say about the Irish contribution to AFL and the policy of AFL clubs recruiting from the amateur Gaelic games). Written with much-loved ABC sport journalist Catherine Murphy.

About the Author: Zach Tuohy’s remarkable journey from Gaelic football in Ireland to becoming one of the most successful Irish imports in the Australian Football League (AFL) is a tale of determination, adaptability and sheer talent. A standout athlete from a young age, Tuohy made a bold leap from the rugged fields of County Laois to the high-octane arenas of the AFL when he was recruited by Carlton at the age of 19. His initial seven years at Carlton were challenging, as he navigated a period of turmoil within the club. However, Tuohy’s robust playing style, strategic vision, and ability to influence games soon shone through when he joined the Geelong Cats. There, he clinched a premiership in 2022 and became a fan favourite.

Celebrated for his resilience and excellence, Tuohy has played a record-breaking number of games and stands as a towering figure in AFL history. As Tuohy celebrates an impressive 15th year in the AFL in 2024, his life off the field is equally fulfilling. Residing in Geelong with his wife and two sons, he embodies the spirit of dedication and community. This compelling biography not only celebrates his sporting achievements but also highlights his role as a trailblazer for Irish athletes in the AFL, inspiring a new generation with his remarkable journey.

29 Oct 2024
 

The Irish Experiment by Zach Tuohy ISBN 9781923022096