Down football star Kevin McKernan thanked those that helped him along the way after announcing his retirement from inter-county duty yesterday.

The Burren clubman’s decision comes after having played 16 seasons with the Mourne County, having been called up by manager Ross Carr in 2006 after captaining Abbey CBS, Newry to Hogan Cup success.

He would be a central figure in Down’s run to the All-Ireland SFC final four years later, as James McCartan’s men lost out on a 0-16 to 0-15 score-line to Cork at Croke Park.

McKernan earned an All-Star nomination for his efforts in the red and back that season and would go to represent Ireland in the International Rules series in the years that followed.

The 34-year-old did not feature in either of Down’s championship outings last month and, following the Mourne men’s Tailteann Cup exit to Cavan last weekend, he confirmed the decision to hang up his boots yesterday.

"It was the most amazing time of my life to be able to wear the Down jersey and I hope that every man, woman and child realises that there are brighter days ahead for our proud county," said McKernan.

"Do what you can for your club in the pursuit of Down playing on the biggest stage again. I know this will happen in the near future as the talent is in our county. Thank you for the memories."

I loved every minute of a very special journey. I took a moment this week to say thank you to those who helped along the way. I look forward to what lies ahead for me and for @OfficialDownGAA 🔴⚫️ pic.twitter.com/Dhl9Wj5fDD

— Kevin McKernan (@KevinMcKernan1) June 2, 2022

We wish Kevin McKernan all the best as he retires from intercounty football. He has been an exceptional servant for Down football in a distinguished career that spanned 15 years and almost 170 games (including 50 championship games). https://t.co/OHLXYIPY7y pic.twitter.com/G9NvAe1tVj

— Official Down GAA (@OfficialDownGAA) June 2, 2022

Tweet

Most Read Stories