Damien Hayes has called time on his inter-county hurling career with Galway.
The three-time All Star turns 33 next month and says he discussed the decision with his family over Christmas before deciding to call it quits.
Hayes won every major honour bar an All-Ireland medal during his 14 senior seasons in maroon.
However, with his club Portumna he claimed four All-Ireland titles.
“I’ve loved my time with Galway and don’t regret a single minute of it” Hayes said in a statement issued by the Gaelic Players Association.
“Yes, not winning an All-Ireland was unfortunate. But I see that as a disappointment, not the end of the world.
“I’m extremely proud to have won a Leinster and two National League medals, I made great friends in the Galway dressing-room and I will always back the current players to win that first All-Ireland since 1988.”
The corner-forward holds a record 52 championship appearances for Galway. He’s also the Tribe’s top-scorer in championship with 25 goals.
Hayes is married to former Tipperary camogie star, Claire Grogan.
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