ARMAGH star Lauren McConville has joined AFLW side Gold Coast Suns on a one-year contract. The 29-year-old is a dual player with Crossmaglen and one of the best footballers at Armagh’s disposal.

McConville will become the club’s fourth Irish recruit, following in the footsteps of Niamh McLaughlin, Clara Fitzpatrick and Cara McCrossan. The Mackin sisters, Aimee and Blaithin, are both under contract with Melbourne.

In a statement, Suns Head of Women’s Football Fiona Sessarago says McConville will bring a unique blend of attributes to the club’s AFLW program.

“Lauren is a tenacious player who has competed at a high-level in Ireland and also has experience playing with the Sherrin in country Victoria,” Sessarago said.

“Given the recent success of players like Niamh, Clara and Cara with the SUNS, we believe there is more untapped talent in Ireland and are excited to see what Lauren can produce in her first season with the club.

“She has elite speed and line-breaking capabilities and an ability to hit the scoreboard which we look forward to seeing at AFLW level this season.”

McConville took a sabbatical in 2019 to play a season with the South Warrnambool Roosters women’s team in country Victoria.

Armagh were knocked out of the All-Ireland championship last weekend, losing to Kerry by the minimum of margins, 1-8 to 0-7.