Cribbin calls time on inter-county career

October 11, 2024

Kildare's Paul Cribbin. ©INPHO/Bryan Keane.

Kildare's Paul Cribbin has announced his retirement from inter-county football.

A former AFL prospect with Collingwood, Cribbin emerged first on the county senior stage in 2013 as part of a Kildare U21 side that claimed the Leinster title with fellow Johnstownbridge clubmen Sean Hurley and Daniel Flynn amongst his teammates in that success. The same year under Kieran McGeeney, he made his senior championship debut against Offaly at Croke Park, scoring four points from wing-forward. 

Injuries hampered Cribbin's involvement in recent years but he reached the milestone of 100 games in the Lilywhite jersey in last season's Leinster SFC quarter-final win over Wicklow. In 2018, Cribbin earned an All-Star nomination for his performances in Kildare's run to the inaugural Super 8s, while he previously represented Ireland in the International Rules Series.

Kildare GAA have paid tribute to the services of Cribbin: "On behalf of Kildare GAA, we wish to thank sincerely Paul Cribbin for his outstanding service to Kildare following his decision to step down from Inter County Football.

"Paul has been a key figure for Kildare since making his Senior Football debut in 2013, showcasing exceptional skill, determination, courage and leadership throughout his career.

"Paul started his Kildare career in 2008 at Minor level. He went on to represent the County at Under 21, where he won a Leinster title in 2013. He first came on to the Senior panel in 2010, before travelling to Australia to play AFL. He also represented Ireland in the International Rules series in 2015 and was nominated for an All-Star in 2018.

"A standout player, Paul was known for his power runs, scoring ability and unwavering dedication to the Lilywhite jersey, with over 100 appearances in League and Championship.

"Over the years, Paul represented his county with tremendous pride, making significant contributions on the field while being a role model off it."


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