Kerry’s Louise Ní Mhuircheartaigh has announced her retirement from intercounty football at the age of 32.
Ní Mhuircheartaigh has called an end to a brilliant career that saw her named footballer of the year in 2023 and where she won five All-Star awards. It reached its crescendo this year when Kerry ended a drought that stretched back to 1993 by beating Galway in the All-Ireland final. For that achievement, she was named The Irish Times Sportswoman of the Month for August.
“After 17 years of representing Kerry at intercounty level, I have made the decision to retire from playing with the Kerry ladies football team,” she said.
“This has been a deeply difficult decision, but one I feel is right for me at this stage in my career. I would like to thank the Kerry County Board for their support throughout my journey.
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“A special thanks to the management teams over the years particularly Darragh and Declan and their management teams, for their guidance, leadership and passion for the Kerry ladies. Your dedication has played a key role in my development, both on and off the field.
“To my team-mates, it has been an honour to represent this jersey alongside such talented and driven individuals. I’ll forever cherish the memories we’ve shared together and the friendships we have created.”
Kerry LGFA chairperson Nora Fealey said: “Louise Ni Mhuircheartaigh has been an inspiration to all who have witnessed her 17-year career in the green and gold.”
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