Kerry footballer Tommy Walsh has retired from the inter-county game.
Walsh played a vital part in Kerry's 2009 All-Ireland win, but departed to play Aussie rules for St Kilda later that year. He also lined out for Sydney Swans in the AFL. A serious hamstring injury curtailed his career Down Under, and he returned to Ireland in 2014.
He subsequently rejoined the Kerry panel but stepped away following the 2016 league campaign. When Peter Keane succeeded Eamon Fitzmaurice, Walsh again joined the Kerry fold.
The Kerins O'Rahillys forward made an appearance off the bench in this year's All-Ireland semi-final defeat to Tyrone.
Tommy Walsh retires from Kerry panel
"It was with sadness that I learned today of Tommy Walsh’s decision to retire from the Kerry Senior football panel," said Kerry manager Jack O'Connor.
"I coached Tommy for two years firstly in 2008 with Kerins O’ Rahilly’s when he was instrumental in helping the Club to a County Final and in 2009 with Kerry.
"He gave one of the great exhibitions to the 2009 All Ireland final against Cork when he scored four great points – two from either foot. Like his father Seanie he was a man for the big occasion and raised his game accordingly.
"I wish him all the best in retirement, and I hope he continues to enjoy a fruitful Club career for many years to come."
28 August 2021; Tommy Walsh of Kerry has an attempt at a score in the closing moment of the All-Ireland Football Championship semi-final against Tyrone at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile
Walsh was also part of the Kerry panel which won the 2007 All-Ireland, and he was named Young Footballer of the Year in 2008.
Kerry chairman Tim Murphy added: "Over the past two years in particular Tommy’s leadership on and off the field has helped to encourage, motivate, and successfully integrate many of our younger players onto the panel.
"On behalf of all Kerry supporters I wish to sincerely thank and acknowledge Tommy for all he has done and wish him the very best in the future."
Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
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