Murphy retires from Kilkenny duty after 16 seasons
Kilkenny goalkeeper Eoin Murphy. ©INPHO/Laszlo Geczo.
Kilkenny goalkeeper Eoin Murphy has announced his retirement from inter-county hurling after 16 seasons with the Cats.
The Glenmore clubman, who joined the senior panel in 2011, bows out with four All-Ireland medals, 10 Leinster titles, five National League titles and four All-Star awards.
He made his senior championship debut in 2013 and played a key role in Kilkenny’s All-Ireland triumphs in 2014 and 2015. He also won All-Ireland and Leinster minor honours in 2008 before claiming a provincial U21 title the following year.
Announcing his decision to call it a day, Murphy reflected on a career spent representing his county.
"Dreamt it – Lived it – Loved it! After 16 years, I’ve made the decision to retire from the Kilkenny senior hurling team," he said.
"For more than half my life, I have had the honour of playing with Kilkenny through minor, U21 and then senior.
"I’ve been lucky to be part of some incredible teams and to play alongside some of the greatest players in the game.
"I want to wish Henry and his backroom team the very best of luck in the coming years. I have no doubt they will get Kilkenny back to where we belong. The team has just gained a massive supporter.
"It is hard to describe the bond you create with teammates when you spend a minimum of five days a week together, all trying to achieve the same goal. To every player I had the honour of playing alongside, the journey would not have been as enjoyable without you. Above all, I always wanted to be remembered as a good teammate."
Speaking after news of Murphy's retirement, Kilkenny GAA chairperson PJ Kenny hailed his "enormous dedication" with the Cats: "His commitment to the black and amber has been exemplary and, throughout his career, he has been central to so many memorable days for Kilkenny hurling.
"To perform at the level Eoin has, year after year, takes enormous dedication. He leaves inter-county hurling with a remarkable record of achievement and with the respect and gratitude of everyone associated with Kilkenny GAA.
"We thank him sincerely for everything he has given to Kilkenny hurling and wish Eoin and his family every happiness and success for the future."
