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Mayo goalkeeper announces retirement after 20 years of senior football

Mayo goalkeeper David Clarke has announced his retirement from inter-county football after 20 yea...



Mayo goalkeeper announces reti...
Football

Mayo goalkeeper announces retirement after 20 years of senior football

Mayo goalkeeper David Clarke has announced his retirement from inter-county football after 20 years at senior level.

The 37-year-old made 133 appearances for Mayo and won eight Connacht titles, two National Leagues and two All-Stars during his senior career.

Clarke made the announcement via the Mayo GAA website and said in a statement:

"Today I have decided it is the right time for me to step away from Mayo senior football team.

"I have lived my dream and taken so much from the experience. I want to thank all of my past managers, coaches, medical staff and county board officials, from when I was U16, minor, U21 and senior.

"I’d like to give a special mention to my goalkeeper coaches Eugene Lavin, Peter Burke and Tom Higgins who helped bring out the best in me.

"I’m grateful to my club, Ballina Stephenites, their coaches and my school teachers who helped me develop as a player and to love the game.

"I am grateful to my work colleagues in An Garda Siochana, your support and flexibility ensured I was able to compete at the highest level.

"Special thanks to my parents, Frank and Gertie and my sister, Sarah, who always supported and encouraged me.

"To my wife, Paula and daughters, Sadie and Lucy thanks for your understanding and support while I lived my dream.

"To the Mayo supporters, thank you for the support, it does make a difference.

"Finally, to all the players I have played with, it was an honour to wear the jersey with you. I now look forward to giving more time to my club and returning to being a Mayo fan again."

Clarke's last appearance for Mayo was in December’s All-Ireland final defeat to Dublin.

The news comes a day after Donal Vaughan announced his retirement from inter-county football.

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Ballina Stephenites David Clarke Mayo Mayo GAA