Kerry's Stephen O’Brien and Adrian Spillane retire from inter-county football

"They will be sadly missed for their leadership within the playing group. I wish them both the very best in their retirement,” insists manager Jack O'Connor.

Sat, 19 Oct, 2024 - 18:00

Cian Locke

Stephen O’Brien and Adrian Spillane have announced their retirement from inter-county football, Kerry GAA have confirmed.

Over the course of his career, O'Brien won two All-Ireland medals and played over 100 games across League and Championship campaigns for the Kingdom while Adrian followed in the footsteps of his father and uncles to continue the Spillane legacy, winning an All-Ireland medal in 2022 and contributing to numerous Munster Championship victories, playing 24 Championship games and 32 League games overall.

“Stephen O’ Brien and Adrian Spillane will be fondly remembered by the Kerry supporters," insists manager Jack O'Connor.

"They were great team players who always worked hard and they were greatly admired and respected by their teammates.

"Both contributed massively to Kerry winning the All Ireland in 2022 . They will be sadly missed for their leadership within the playing group. I wish them both the very best in their retirement”.

Cathaoirleach Coiste Chontae Chiarraí CLG Patrick O'Sullivan added: “On behalf of Kerry GAA and the entire Kerry community, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations and deepest gratitude to Stephen O’Brien and Adrian Spillane as they announce their retirement from inter-county football.

Stephen O'Brien blocks a shot at goal by Johnny Heaney of Galway during the GAA Football All-Ireland Senior Championship Final. Photo by Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile

Stephen and Adrian have given so much to the green and gold over the years, embodying the spirit, dedication, and skill that Kerry football is renowned for. They have been exemplary ambassadors for our county, displaying unwavering commitment both on and off the field.

Both of you have made sacrifices—personal, physical, and professional—to represent Kerry at the highest level. It takes immense dedication to balance the demands of inter-county football, and you both have done so with great dignity and resilience. Kerry football is richer for having had you among our ranks.

I also wish to acknowledge the support of your families, friends, and communities who have stood by your side throughout your careers. Without their backing, the journey would not have been the same.

As you close this chapter of your careers, I know that the next stage will be filled with success in whatever path you choose. You will always be a part of the Kerry GAA family, and we hope to see you continue to inspire future generations of players in whatever role you may take on next.

Go raibh míle maith agaibh, Stephen and Adrian. You leave behind a lasting legacy, and Kerry GAA will forever be grateful”.