She earned her 50th cap against the USA in Argentina in 2006 and two year’s later she became a centurion at the 2008 Olympic Qualifiers in Victoria when she lined out against Canada.
McKean marked both occasions in style, netting a goal in each fixture. Speaking about her international career, she said “The experience has given me moments of heart bursting pride, stomach tingling excitement, and crushing disappointment. “But yes it has absolutely been worth it. I have no regrets, I loved it.
“Irish hockey has been a fantastic experience for me and I would like to thank the Coaches, Supporters, our Sponsors ESB, the Irish Sports Council, OCI and Sport NI and especially my team mates over the last ten years.
“Although I am sad to be leaving it all behind I have no regrets. The future is bright for Irish hockey and I look forward to supporting the girls in green from the sidelines”
Gene Muller, her Ireland coach of three years, said of McKean’s decision: "Cathy has been a powerful presence on and off the field for Ireland. Over the course of her international career, she has always been a brave and intensely committed hockey player. There is nothing ambivalent about her as a player or as a person.
“She will leave a powerful legacy especially to the younger forwards who were fortunate enough to play with her. She is a true character and will be missed in our team".
She will continue to play for Loreto for the foreseeable future as the Beaufort club bid to retain the ESB Irish Hockey League title.
5 comments:
Just wanna say it has been a pleasure watchin Cathy play for Ireland over the last coupla years, she really gives it everything and she will b missed in a big big way! Really sad to see her go but best of luck to her for the future!
Well done Cath ...A great career for your country. Its a huge committment putting your life on hold as you strive to play at the top of your chosen sport . Welcome back to club life in Loreto ..we will be delighted to see you with the same drive each week in Beaufort ...P
Ireland will really miss one of the most outstanding forwards of the current era. Her workrate, tenacity and defensive know-how are matched by very few. Her energy, skill and ability in front of goal are outstanding, as was on show if anybody saw Leinster v Munster this year in the senior interpros when she single-handedly tore Munster apart, and scored a first rate diving deflection. Well done on a fantastic career to a fantastic player and person.
Well done McKean, you’ve done yourself, Ireland and Loreto proud! Looking forward to having you back in maroon and white...Country
good luck in the future cathy - you will be greatly missed by all players and supporters alike!h r m and e
Post a Comment