Connacht captain John Muldoon to retire at end of season
Wednesday 24 January 2018 20:28, UK
Connacht captain John Muldoon will bring the curtain down on his 17-year career at the end of the season.
The Portumna native has spent his entire career with his home province, making 319 appearances and scoring 23 tries.
Muldoon led Connacht to their first piece of silverware in 2016 when they defeated Leinster in the PRO12 final at Murrayfield.
The 35-year-old, who won three Ireland caps, said in a statement: "I have been on an incredible journey during that time but sadly all good things come to an end and for me that time is the end of this season.
"I have been honoured and humbled to wear the Connacht jersey and particularly to be given the opportunity to captain my home province.
"I'd like to thank everyone at Connacht Rugby, especially coaches and players both past and present. Also, to my wife Lorna and my wonderful family for their constant support down through the years.
"The Connacht supporters have also been incredible throughout my career and have made the Sportsground a fortress where I have always been immensely proud to play and represent this fantastic province.
"I am determined to finish my career on a high and for the remainder of the season I will be doing everything in my power to bring further success to Connacht."
Connacht chief executive Willie Ruane added: "John Muldoon has represented the people of Connacht with massive pride and he epitomises everything that is great about the west of Ireland.
"He has always remained a very humble, grounded and honest individual, someone we are proud to call one of our own and someone I am extremely proud to have worked with during my own time here."
