Buttimer bows out of international hockey

NIGEL BUTTIMER has announced his retirement from international hockey at the age of 28.

The Cork Church of Ireland player collected 51 caps since his debut in 1998 against Scotland. His last game was in 2003 at the European Nations Cup in Barcelona against Switzerland, where Ireland won 5-2.

Ireland manager Steven Hiles said: "Nigel is a model professional and a perfect role model for all young hockey players today. He will be sorely missed on and off the pitch."