DONEGAL star Niamh McLaughlin’s move to Australia has been confirmed after she signed for Gold Coast Suns.

The 29-year-old was voted as Player of the Year and also represented Ireland in soccer at u-17 and u-19 level, with stints at Newcastle and Sunderland.

“I’m thrilled to have been given this opportunity and the chance to push myself into something new,” McLaughlin told the club website.

“The opportunities have become more available to girls to make the transition from Gaelic football to the AFLW. The skills are quite transferrable and it’s a new challenge with a new lifestyle for me, which is exciting.”

“The conversations I’ve had with (Head Coach) Cameron (Joyce) and (Head of Women’s Football) Fiona (Sessarago) have been positive and I’m looking forward to the new adventure.”

McLaughlin will become the second Irishwoman on the club’s roster alongside Down’s Clara Fitzpatrick who joined the club last week.

“Niamh is a fantastic addition to our AFLW program. Not only is she an exciting talent on-field, but her natural leadership qualities that she’s shown throughout her career is something that will be of great benefit to our developing squad,” Head of Women’s Football Fiona Sessarago said. “We look forward to welcoming Niamh to the Gold Coast and the GC Suns”