DONEGAL’S KARL LACEY HAS announced he’s retiring from the inter-county game.
The versatile defender was a key member of Donegal’s All-Ireland winning team in 2012 and won four All-Stars as well as Footballer of the Year during an illustrious career.
Lacey made his debut in 2004 as a substitute against Antrim and represented Donegal with distinction over the course of a 14-year career.
He struggled with injury in his final few seasons but finishes his career with a record-equaling 65 championship appearances for Donegal, joint-top with Christy Toye.
Lacey also served as a strength and conditioning coach with the county under-age development squads in recent times.
In a statement released on the Donegal GAA website, Lacey wrote: “Having allowed some dust to settle on our season, I now feel ready to announce my retirement from the Donegal senior football team.
“I have experienced almost everything with the Donegal footballers over these past 14 seasons and more, from desperate defeats to the crowning glory winning the Sam Maguire in 2012 and everything in between. They are games and days and friendships that will live with me forever.
“I am thankful for the opportunities given to me over the course of my career, and grateful to the players who played alongside me and the coaches who guided me throughout it.
“With them, I was able to win League, Ulster, All-Ireland and individual honours, and for that I very thankful. In addition to my time with Donegal, I was honoured to be selected for my country and play in the 2006 and 2011 International Rules series.
“Now, I embark on a different phase of my life – that of a former county footballer.
“I will continue to play with Four Masters, with whom I first kicked a ball and with whom I will kick my last.
“I am enjoying increased responsibility in my job at LYIT and I have enjoyed dipping my toe into coaching in recent times, most recently with the Donegal development squads.
“I am soon to be married to my fiancee Ciara. Our son Noah has been a light in both our lives. They have made many sacrifices so that I could continue to pursue my inter county career and I am eternally grateful to them for that.”
