Ireland's most-decorated hockey player, Eugene Magee, has announced his international retirement.
Magee, who played 295 times for his country, informed management of his decision last week.
He has scored 60 goals for Ireland, including the self-described career high of netting against Germany in the Olympics in Rio.
Magee was an integral part of Ireland historic return to competing in the Olympics, as well as their return to the World Cup last year having failed to reach that level since 1990.
He scored twice in the Olympic Qualifier sudden death shootout in Canada last year, plus in the famous 4-2 win over England at the European Championships back in 2015.
The 33-year-old said: "After much consideration, I have decided to retire from international hockey.
"I have enjoyed 15 years as part of the Irish Men’s hockey team and it has been my privilege to represent my country among so many talented players.
"To be able to play hockey with your friends is one thing but to compete on an international scale takes a huge amount of work from a lot of people and to them I am truly grateful.
"Through many years there have been ups and downs but overall, I have loved the experience.
"International hockey has been a huge part of my life and although it will feel strange to retire, I feel very privileged to have gained all the experiences I have had and to have played my part for the team.
"I now look forward to exciting times ahead with a young family and watching the incredible talent in this team develop.
"It has been an honour to wear the Irish shirt."
Ireland head coach Mark Tumilty has also worked with Magee for a number of years with Banbridge Hockey Club and has paid a glowing tribute.
Tumilty stated: "Eugene is a fantastic servant to Irish Hockey, having played a key role in the success of the team over the last decade. Eugene will rightly be regarded as one of the best to have worn the green shirt.
"An exceptional hockey player, team-mate and person.
"It has been a pleasure to work with Eugene at club and more recently at international level and I wish him and his family all the best with his retirement from international hockey."
