Limerick inter-county hurler Richie McCarthy has announced his retirement from John Kiely's senior panel.
The 32-year-old made his senior debut for the Treaty County in 2011 and picked up an All-Star award in 2013 as a full-back.
McCarthy's other honours include Limerick's famous All-Ireland win in 2018, Munster senior winners' medals in 2013 and 2019, an Allianz Hurling League Division Two title in 2011 and Division One title in 2019.
In a statement released by Limerick GAA today on behalf of McCarthy, the Blackrock man paid tribute to his teammates.
“Today I am announcing my retirement from the Limerick Senior Hurling team. It has been an incredible 11 year journey but the time is right for me to now step away.
"It is the greatest honour for any GAA player to wear their county colours but it has also been the wild dreams of a youngster from Kilfinane.
Oooohhhhhh Richie Mc Carthy https://t.co/ebLhSQqeSX pic.twitter.com/je2CjKcBdU
— Limerick GAA (@LimerickCLG) November 25, 2019
"To all of my teammates who have worked so hard to achieve what we have achieved, all I can say is thank you, it has been a pleasure. I am left with many great memories including the greatest of all when I was able to lift the Liam McCarthy in front of Hill 16.
"I would like to thank and acknowledge the immeasurable contribution of the many management, medical and backroom teams I have been with for over a decade as well as the help and support I received from the Limerick County Board.
"Thank you also to my club Blackrock for your support and belief in me as a player."
McCarthy, who missed the 2019 inter-county season due to a cruciate ligament injury, was also a member of the Limerick minor side that lost to Galway in the 2005 All-Ireland minor hurling final.
He was also keen to stress his appreciation for the Limerick fans in his departing statement.
"To the supporters of Limerick, I want to say a huge thank you. Your continued belief and support of us is everything that makes playing for Limerick so special.
"Finally, to my family, my parents Henry and Ann and in particular my partner Ruth who have been an enormous support to me and who I owe so much to.
"I would like to wish John, Declan and all the panel the very best for the coming year. I look forward to playing with Blackrock for many years to come.”
