WEST Coast international rookie Paddy Brophy has walked away from his bid to make it in the AFL and decided to return to Ireland.

Brophy sat out East Perth's win over Perth at the weekend to decide his future and told teammates on Tuesday that he was moving home.

"It’s disappointing it’s over, but it’s time," Brophy told westcoasteagles.com.au. 

"I am going home for personal reasons, including homesickness, but I have really enjoyed my time at the club.

"I will always be grateful to the club for giving me the opportunity. It has been a great experience, but I’ll go back home, continue my university studies and play Gaelic football. 

"I’d like to thank everyone at both West Coast and East Perth for their support. I have made some lifelong friends and have really enjoyed the experience."

Brophy played 45 League games for the Royals and three reserves matches, mostly across half-back. 

The Irish rookie finished third in East Perth's best and fairest award last season – his second year playing Australian Rules - and racked up 25 touches and kicked a goal in his most recent appearance on Good Friday.

"It’s disappointing that Paddy has decided to go back to Ireland, but he has been a valuable member of the playing squad," football manager Craig Vozzo said. 

"Paddy came to the club as our first international category B rookie and did very well to adjust to our game and the oval ball. 

"He has always enthusiastically embraced the challenge of tackling a foreign game, but could not quite reach the level to play elite football."