Kerry footballer Anthony Maher announces retirement
Wednesday 3 October 2018 11:24, UK
Kerry footballer Anthony Maher has announced his retirement from intercounty football.
The two-time All-Ireland winner was a key man at midfield throughout Éamonn Fitzmaurice's reign.
Maher becomes the third Kerry star to retire in recent weeks, following in the footsteps of Kieran Donaghy and Donnchadh Walsh.
"Since pulling on my first green and gold jersey back in 1999 for the primary game in Páirc Uí Chaoimh I've had the immense pleasure of representing my family, my parish and my county - now the time has come to call it a day," said Maher in his retirement statement.
"While I am retiring from Kerry football with a heavy heart, I'm retiring with incredible memories. We've had highs and lows together but the bond developed throughout has been immeasurable. I look forward to watching and supporting as the current group continue to develop and grow, and return to glory once again."
Former boss Fitzmaurice also paid tribute to the Maher, who won eight Munster titles during his Kerry career.
"He has served Kerry with honesty, honour and humility and retires with many distinctions to his name," said Fitzmaurice.
"During my time in charge, Anthony was a hugely important member of our group, being our midfield anchor for much of that time.
"In 2014 we holidayed in South Africa as All Ireland champions. We spent part of the trip at Sun City and naturally availed of the golf on site.
"One day as a group of us wound down our round I noticed Anthony running around the boundary of the golf course on his own, typically pushing himself. He was getting ready for 2015 and backed up his 2014 season by again driving us to the final that year."
