Cora Staunton has retired from Aussie rules after six seasons with the Greater Western Sydney Giants.
The Mayo woman was the first international player to join an AFLW club in 2017. She went on to play 50 games for the Giants, making her the club's all-time appearances record holder, while her 55 goals rank her equal second all-time in the league.
In a statement, the GWS Giants said the 41-year-old "returned home post-season seven to deliberate the future of her career and ultimately decided her time in the AFLW was up".
4 March 2023; The RTÉ Sport panel, including analysts Paul Flynn, Peter Canavan, Cora Staunton and presenter Damian Lawlor during the Allianz Football League Division 2 match between Derry and Dublin at Celtic Park in Derry. Photo by Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile
“I congratulate Cora on not only everything she has achieved in our game of Aussie Rules, but throughout her entire sporting career,” said Giants head of women's football Briana Harvey.
“While not a foundation player, she has been with us through our highest highs and lowest lows and helped to build and shape the foundations and standards within our club.
“Cora will not only leave a legacy as a successful cross-code player and leading goal scorer, but I would imagine that one of her proudest legacies she leaves us with is the establishment of the weekly Jacinda Barclay Fearless Award.
“Cora has formed life-long friendships with players and staff across her time at the club and her presence will be missed.
“On behalf of the club, I would like to thank Cora for her contribution over the past six seasons and wish her all the best in the next chapter of her life.”
The eighth season of the AFLW is due to get underway later this year.
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