Kerry duo O'Brien and Spillane announce retirements from inter-county football

October 19, 2024

Kerry's Adrian Spillane celebrates with Stephen O'Brien after the 2022 All-Ireland SFC final win over Galway ©INPHO/Ryan Byrne

Kerry’s Stephen O’Brien and Adrian Spillane have both announce their retirements from inter-county football this evening.

O’Brien won two All-Ireland SFC titles with the Kingdom in 2014 and 2022, making his championship debut in the former as he went on to earn 100 appearances in the famous green and gold jersey between league and championship.

“Stephen is a gentleman on and off the field, and his contribution to Kerry football, both in his achievements and his character, cannot be overstated. His departure leaves a lasting legacy that will be remembered by all who followed his remarkable journey,” a statement from Kerry GAA reads.

Spillane, who is a nephew of Kerry great Pat, debuted with the Munster kingpins in 2019 and played in both the drawn and replay All-Ireland final clash against Dublin that same year.

The Templenoe clubman tasted All-Ireland senior glory with his county three years later as Pat O’Connor’s team defeated Galway in the final by three points at Croke Park. All in all, Spillane made 24 championship and 32 league appearances for the Kingdom.

“Adrian Spillane’s contribution to Kerry GAA cannot be measured in statistics alone. He was a true warrior for the jersey, always giving everything for his teammates and the supporters. A gentleman on and off the field, Adrian leaves behind a legacy of hard work, humility, and pride in representing his county,” read this evening’s statement from Kerry GAA.

“He will be spoken about with admiration by all those who had the privilege of watching him play. We wish Adrian all the very best in his future endeavours.”


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