DUBLIN HURLING HAS been dealt another blow ahead of the 2017 season following the retirement of Niall Corcoran.
Corcoran, who played a part in Dublin’s historic triumph in the 2013 Leinster final, joins a number of other players who have either withdrawn or been omitted from Ger Cunningham’s squad. It was reported earlier in the week, that the 2013 captain Johnny McCaffrey and former All-Star Peter Kelly are among those who will not play a part in next year’s campaign.
A statement issued by Corcoran which has been published on the Dublin GAA website, reflects on his days spent hurling from a young age and how he achieved a life-long ambition in playing for Dublin.
“I wish to announce my retirement from Inter-county Hurling. It has been a great honour to represent Dublin at Senior level since making my debut in 2008.”
“As a child my one ambition in life was to play hurling at the highest level and I am grateful to Dublin for giving me that opportunity. Throughout my career I have had the privilege of playing against and with some truly outstanding players, many of whom will remain friends for life.”
“I would like to thank my family and friends who have been a constant support to me during the good days and bad. To Dublin County Board for their unwavering support both on and off the pitch, no stone was left unturned in our pursuit of excellence. Thanks also to the GPA for their help in the development of my professional career.”
“From growing up in a small rural hurling hearth land, to moving to a vibrant suburban GAA stronghold, it was with great pride that I represented both the people of Kilmacud Crokes and Meelick/Eyrecourt each time I wore the sky blue of Dublin. I sincerely thank both clubs for their support and loyalty over the years. I would like to acknowledge the many coaches & teachers who guided me through my hurling education as a child and instilled in me a love of what can only be described as the greatest game in the world.”
“Finally, I would like to pay tribute to the various management & backroom teams that I have the pleasure of getting to know while representing Dublin, I thank you for believing in me.”
“To finish, I wish Dublin well for the future. I firmly believe in this talented group of players achieving further success. I leave with many great friendships, a couple of medals and a life time of memories.”
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