Jonjo Farrell, Kilkenny, in action against Niall Corcoran, Dublin, during the 2016 Leinster Hurling Senior Championship Semi-Final.
By Cian O'Connell
Niall Corcoran has announced his retirement from inter-county hurling.
Thirty four year old Corcoran, won a Leinster Senior Hurling Championship in 2013 and an Allianz Hurling League in 2011 with Dublin.
Corcoran hurled for Meelick-Eyrecourt and was part of Galway's All Ireland minor winning panel in 2000.
Subsequently Corcoran transferred to Kilmacud Crokes emerging as a key player for Dublin, making his 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," Corcoran said in a statement released on Friday. "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."
Niall Corcoran has retired from inter-county hurling.
Corcoran highlighted the role of Meelick/Eyrecourt and Kilmacud in his own personal sporting journey. "From growing up in a small rural hurling heart 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 and 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 and 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 lifetime of memories."
