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Anthony Maher celebrates a point against Tyrone in the 2015 All-Ireland semi-final. Photo by Dermot Crean.
ANOTHER Kerry player has decided to retire from the Kerry inter-county scene,
After the recent retirements of Donnchadh Walsh and Kieran Donaghy, two-time All-Ireland medal winner Anthony Maher made the announcement on the Kerry GAA website this morning.
His statement reads:
“Since pulling on my first green and gold jersey back in 1999 for the primary game in Pairc Ui Chaoimh I’ve had the immense pleasure of representing my family, my parish and my county – now the time has come to call it a day.
Continued below…
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I’d firstly like to thank all my former team mates. While I am retiring from Kerry football with a heavy heart, I’m retiring with incredible memories. We’ve had highs and lows together but the bond developed throughout has been immeasurable. I look forward to watching and supporting as the current group continue to develop & grow, and return to glory once again.
I’d also like to express my gratitude to all the management teams down throughout the years. Their commitment to the cause has always been second to none. I’m extremely grateful for the opportunity given to me first by Pat O’Shea, further developed and nurtured by Jack & Eamonn and their backroom teams. A special thanks to the team of medics and physios who have looked after me, especially in recent years. Also, to the County Board who have always been and continue to be a fantastic support to the entire team.
To my club, Duagh – I thank all of the people who have invested in me and shown massive support to me throughout my entire footballing career. I hope I have done you all proud. The club is where it began for me and now I am really looking forward to the years ahead with Duagh.
My parents and my sisters have always been incredible when it came to my footballing commitments. They’ve always supported me, right back to that first training session my dad brought me to in Duagh as a young boy. I don’t think things looked too promising that day, but the encouragement began straight away and thankfully it paid off!
All my extended family & friends – thanks for the never ending support and loyalty through thick and thin.
To my wife Megan – the Limerick woman proudly sporting the green and gold since 2008! Thank you for your constant love, support, belief and loyalty. I look forward to beginning the next chapter with you.
And finally, the supporters. Thank you for always backing our team and I’m really looking forward to joining you in the stands in 2019. Ciarrai abu!”
His list of honours is as follows…
2 All Ireland Senior Football Championship 2009, 2014. 2 Allianz League 2009, 2017, 8 Munster Senior Football Championships 2010, 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017,2018. 1 Munster Minor Football Championship 2004. 1 Munster Junior Championship 2008. 1 County Senior Football Championship 2008, 1 County Junior Championship 2006. 1 Munster Junior Club 2006. 1 All Star 2015.
