FOUR-TIME ALL-Ireland winner with Wexford, and nine-time All Star Kate Kelly has retired from inter-county camogie.
After a remarkable 21 years of unbroken service to her senior inter-county set-up, she ends her glittering career with four All-Ireland senior titles, and an impressive nine All Star accolades.
Through the years, Kelly has been pivotal for her side. The St Ibar’s/Shelmaliers clubwoman won her first O’Duffy Cup with the Slaneysiders in 2007, as they bridged a 32-year gap.
2010 brought the first of three-in-a-row, and Kelly was named Player of the Match at midfield in the 2012 decider. On top of the championship honours are three National League titles.
“It was a tough decision, or course,” the 37-year-old told The Camogie Association website.
“You think you will go on forever. You don’t want it to end. I knew in my heart last year that could be it. All good things must come to an end.
“I told the girls on the team at the end of April that I wouldn’t be coming back, so they have known for a while.
“I was hoping to slip away quietly, but this week people have been asking if I am going to play. I’ve had huge support from the players, my club, my family and my husband.”
There's fine wine & then there's Kate Kelly. Complete honour to play alongside this lady. Was & always will be one of Wexford's greatest ⭐️ pic.twitter.com/SZuxvDOVmN
— Mags D'Arcy (@magsdarcy) June 15, 2017
Treasurer of the Women’s Gaelic Players Association (WGPA), Kelly will continue to line out with her club.
Wexford now open their All-Ireland senior championship campaign without one leader as they face Offaly on Saturday, 24 June.
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