Katie Mullan steps down as Ireland hockey captain

Katie Mullan captaining Ireland at the FIH Hockey Olympic Qualifiers 2024 in Valencia v Spain. Pic: WORLDSPORTPICS FRANK UIJLENBROEK

Katie Mullan is stepping away from her captain’s duties for the Ireland senior women’s national hockey team.

Skipper for the last eight years, under her leadership the Irish women’s hockey team defied all expectations by reaching the 2018 World Cup final before qualifying for the Olympics for the first time, securing their spot at the 2020 Tokyo Games. 

The Derry woman, 30, believes now is the right time to step away from the role, though she is not yet ready to stop playing international hockey. 

“Captaining Ireland has been the greatest privilege and honour of my life. For eight unforgettable years, I’ve always focused on what’s best for the team and this decision is no different. I believe the time is right for me to pass on the armband. 

"I’m not ready to retire from playing, as I feel I still have much more to give to the Irish shirt. It’s an exciting time ahead.

“Whilst I have been blessed to lead the team on some of the most historic days in Irish sport, the role has presented many challenges and moments of isolation. I am incredibly grateful to my support network for being there through the thick and thin: my parents, Brian and Cathryn, my four siblings, and granny Joy, my number one fan.

“The role has given me the unique opportunity to build strong relationships within the hockey community and with our team sponsors, all of whom are committed to supporting women in sport which is reflected in their continued help on and off the pitch."

Mullan hopes Ireland can still go on to capitalise fully on the achievement of that 2018 World Cup run.

  “I am incredibly passionate about the future of hockey in Ireland and the legacy we can build. In 2018 we witnessed the potential for the sport but we are still some distance off realising it. In my next chapter I endeavour to continue helping drive the sport to new heights.”