'Forever grateful, forever proud': Hockey legend David Harte calls time on Irish career

David Harte of Team Ireland during the Men's Hockey warm up match between Ireland and South Africa at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium during the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile

International goalkeeper David Harte has announced his retirement from international hockey after almost two decades manning the Irish net.

Having come up through the ranks of Bandon Grammar School and Cork Harlequins, two-time FIH World Goalkeeper of the Year Harte made his Ireland debut in August 2006 aged 18 in a Celtic Cup match against France, beginning an incredible international career that spanned 247 caps.

Harte went on to become one of Ireland’s most important and influential hockey figures, featuring throughout the team’s biggest moments of the modern era. 

One of just two players to represent Ireland at two Olympic Games, Rio 2016 and Paris 2024, captaining the side during their historic Bronze medal at the 2015 EuroHockey Championships in London, and multiple appearances at major tournaments such as World Cups and World Leagues are just some of the highlights of his exceptional career.

In an open letter, Harte wrote: "After a lot of thought, I’ve decided that the time is right to step away from international hockey.

"I earned my first senior cap for Ireland back in 2006, and what followed has been a journey I could never have imagined. Pulling on the green jersey and representing my country has been the greatest honour of my career, and one I never once took for granted.

"Over the years, I’ve been incredibly fortunate to have competed on some of the biggest stages in our sport — European Championships, a World Cup and Olympic Games. This was made even more special doing so shoulder-to-shoulder with my twin brother Conor. I’m proud of how far Irish men's hockey has come during that time and hopeful that I have played a small part in that progress.

"I want to thank every teammate I’ve shared the pitch and dressing room with, along with all the coaches and staff. A special thanks to my goalkeeper coaches, Nidge and Martijn, for their constant challenge and support. I’m also incredibly grateful to my loyal sponsors — TK Sports, Kinetica Sports and Mizuno Hockey — for being an integral part of the journey.

"To my family and friends, in particular my Mum and Dad, who were always there through the highs and the many lows - thank you. Your belief and encouragement from the beginning meant everything. Above all, thank you to my wife Lyn, my daughters Georgia and Ava. Your love, patience and understanding carried me through this journey and meant more to me than you’ll ever probably know.

"While this chapter comes to an end, my love for the game remains as strong as ever. I leave competing internationally with immense pride, lifelong memories, and deep gratitude for the opportunity to represent Hockey Ireland for so many years.

"Thank you for everything — forever grateful, forever proud."