Cork's Alan Cadogan announces retirement from inter-county hurling 

CALLING IT A DAY: Cork's Alan Cadogan. Pic: INPHO/Tom Maher

Cork's Alan Cadogan has announced his retirement from inter-county hurling. 

Cadogan issued a statement on social media, explaining his decision to step away from the Cork setup he joined a decade ago. 

The two-time Munster SHC winner - who represented the Cork footballers at minor and under-21 level, and also featured once for the senior footballers in 2016 - made his senior hurling debut for the county in February of 2014, and went on to secure three All-Star nominations on the back of his performances in red over the last 10 years. 

Cadogan's older brother, Eoin, retired from the intercounty game in late 2021.

Cork GAA led the well wishes for Cadogan, noting his five Munster championship wins in red, three of which he won with the under-21 footballers, and two with the senior hurlers.

"Best wishes from all in Cork GAA to Alan Cadogan on his inter-county retirement. 

"A wonderfully gifted exponent of both codes in the rebel red jersey winning three Munster under-21 football and two senior hurling medals at provincial level. 

"Best wishes in your future endeavours."

In his own statement, the inside-forward thanked a number of important people and organisations within the GAA that have helped him attain his dream of representing his county. 

The 30-year-old school teacher also noted his intention to continue hurling with Douglas. 

Cadogan's statement read: 

"Upon reflection I have decided that the time is right for me to retire from senior inter county hurling.

"From a young age and seeing the Cork teams of the past, my dream was always to represent Cork at the highest level and I was privileged to do so in both codes from minor, to U21 and at senior inter county hurling for the past 10 years.

"Firstly, I would like to thank my parents James & Eileen for the person you have made me today. You have been there with me every step of this journey and you have been my greatest influence & inspiration. Everyday I stepped foot on a GAA pitch, all I ever wanted to do was to repay you for your love and support you showed me through the highs and lows. 

"To my siblings Eoin, Ann-Marie and Claire, I thank you for your support, guidance and reassurance throughout the years. I will be forever grateful to you all.

"To my Fiancé Maeve, thank you for your support, love and patience throughout my journey. I am grateful for the sacrifices you have made to allow me fulfil my dream and I am glad to have shared this journey with you.

"I also wish to thank Cork County board, my club Douglas GAA and the Cork supporters who encouraged me in every step of the way during my inter county career. Thanks also to the GPA for their off the pitch support in assisting me in the developments in my career.

"To the current management team, management and coach’s of the past that I worked with, I thank you for showing belief in me and assisting me to be the very best version of myself. I am happy that I have given my all to the Cork jersey the last 10 years by the standards that I with hold for myself both on and off the field. I would also like to thank the medical staff and physios that looked after me over the years by making sure I got back to full fitness after each set back I experienced.

"Thank you to my workplace St. Francis College Rochestown Secondary school for their support to me as a student for 6 years and now as a current teacher of the school.

"Finally, I would like to acknowledge the late Br. Damien Brennan. He’s belief, trust and friendship allowed me to maximise my full potential and inspire me be the very best I could be. Even though we only knew each other for a short period of time, you were more than a mentor. You were a true friend.

"As this chapter closes, I look forward to continuing hurling with my club and exploring new challenges and opportunities that may arise in the future.

"Thank you.

"Alan."