ONE OF THE last remaining links to Tipperary’s 2010 Liam MacCarthy triumph has stepped away from county hurling.
Patrick ‘Bonner’ Maher has announced his retirement, through the Tipperary GAA website, with a statement. Only Noel McGrath, deep into club championships on two fronts at present, remains from the 2010 win.
Maher won All Irelands in 2010, 2016 and 2019, and added All Stars in the 2014 and 2016 seasons, while also enduring significant injuries with a cruciate tear and a ruptured achilles.
His statement read; ‘After 16 years as a Tipperary senior hurler I have decided that the time is right for me to announce my retirement from inter county hurling.
‘It has been a dream come true for me to have had the privilege and honour to wear the Tipperary jersey.
‘I want to thank each and every player I had the opportunity to share the dressing room with, I will cherish the friendships made over the years and all the great memories.
‘To the management teams and backroom teams, I greatly appreciate all the time and effort you have given me in helping me reach my full potential.
‘The support I have received over my time as a player from the Tipperary County Board, The Tipperary Supporters Club and Associations and Team sponsors has been immense and I thank you all for your dedication in supporting the Tipperary team to the highest standards. I would also like to thank the GPA for all the support they have provided me during my career.
Bonner Maher is probably my favourite Tipp player ever! Always loved his direct style of play
— Paul Carroll (@PCarrollSport) October 7, 2024
His workrate was second to none and to come back from the injuries he had and still contribute says it all
This from earlier in the year was vintage Bonnerpic.twitter.com/Nly3XwoHSn
‘My club Lorrha, it has been a huge honour for me to represent our club. I want to thank you for all the support. My friends and teammates who have always been there for me during the highs and lows which I am grateful for.
‘My parents John and Madeline without your support and guidance I would have never reached the highs of my career and I’m extremely grateful for everything you have done for me.
‘My brothers Jack and Willie, my love for the blue and gold and hurling in general was born in the countless hours we spent hurling on the front lawn at home. Thanks for never going easy on me.
‘My partner Grainne, I’m so grateful to you for all the support you have given me throughout the years. Thank you for the sacrifices you have made to allow me to pursue my sporting dreams, for this I will be forever grateful.
‘The Tipperary supporters it has been an honour to represent you on the field. I want to thank each and everyone of you for the support. I look forward to joining you in the stands to cheer on Tipperary for the years to come.
‘To the Tipperary team in 2025 I wish you the very best and look forward to cheering you on. Tipp Abu.’
