A day after being excluded from the Tipperary senior hurling panel Paul Curran's announced his inter county retirement after 15 years in the blue and gold.
Thanking his club, and the people of Mullinahone, for their encouragement during his time playing with Tipperary. he also paid tribute to his family and wife, Tracy, for the sacrifices they have made and for their great support at all times, affording him many great memories he will forever treasure.
Curran was part of Tipperary’s triumphant 2010 All-Ireland team having made his championship debut for the county in 2002.
The 33 year-old won five Munster senior hurling medals – including one as captain in 2012 – and two National league medals. He was an Allstar in 2010 and 2011 while his career achievements also included a Fitzgibbon Cup medal with Waterford IT in 2003 and a Tipperary senior hurling medal with his club in 2002.
Here is Paul's Statement:
"Having had the great honour of being a member of the Tipperary Senior hurling panel for the past 15 years, I have decided to call time on my inter-county hurling career. It was a huge privilege for me to wear the blue and gold and to represent my county. I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to the many people who have supported me during my hurling career. I am very grateful to all the players, management and backroom staff who have given me such support over the years.
I want to thank my club, and the people of Mullinahone, for their loyalty and encouragement during my time playing with Tipperary. I want to thank especially my family and my wife, Tracy, for the sacrifices they have made and for their great support at all times. I am very grateful for the many opportunities and friendships that being part of this team has afforded me and I have many great memories that I will forever treasure.
Finally, I want to wish Tipperary well for the future. I have great hopes for this team and have no doubt they will go on to bring many more honours to the county".
Speaking after hearing the news, Tipperary Co. Board Chairman, Michael Bourke, said "Paul was one of the finest backs of his generation and served his county with tremendous pride and honour. Paul was reliably consistant and was unfailing in his loyalty to the county throughout his career. On behalf of the Co. Board and Tipperary supporters I would sincerely like to wish Paul and his family the very best for the future and for continued success with his club Mullinahone".
