KATIE MULLAN is stepping down as Ireland captain, it has been confirmed.
The 30-year-old made her Ireland debut in 2012 and was appointed captain in 2017. She also represented Ballymoney HC at an early age and subsequently lined out for EY Hockey League Division 1’s UCD Ladies Hockey Club in Dublin.
“Captaining Ireland has been the greatest privilege and honour of my life,” Mullan said in a statement released today. “For eight unforgettable years, I’ve always focused on what’s best for the team and this decision is no different. I believe the time is right for me to pass on the armband. I’m not ready to retire from playing, as I feel I still have much more to give to the Irish shirt. It’s an exciting time ahead.
“Whilst I have been blessed to lead the team on some of the most historic days in Irish sport, the role has presented many challenges and moments of isolation. I am incredibly grateful to my support network for being there through the thick and thin: my parents, Brian and Cathryn, my four siblings, and granny Joy, my number one fan.”
Mullan has played a key part in historic moments for the national team, helping them reach the 2018 World Cup final and competing at the Olympics for the first time at the 2020 Tokyo Games.
“In 2018 we witnessed the potential for the sport but we are still some distance off realising it,” the Derry-born forward added. “In my next chapter, I endeavour to continue helping drive the sport to new heights.”
Great to see Robbie in form, in a decent league pre Euros… But let’s hope trap is paying attention to the fine performances of ciaran Clarke too!
Ciaran Clark has to go to the Euros. He will be important in the WC 2014 qualifiers and a good player for us for years to come hopefully. His goal in the cup a few weeks ago was class.
Keane is getting some great confidence boosters here. Hopefully this can continue to the summer. But defender and goalkeeper need to up the game. (oshea and given).
Pilkington of Norwich is class and should be in traps squad aswell
Duffer answered rumours of being sold by Fulham
Keane is on fire two absolutely top drawer goals and was Scholes like playing in front of mid field.
I think an important question to ask is why Robbie Keane joined LA Galaxy if he still can play at a decent level if not the premiere league then surely the championship is better quality then the MLS…