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Ireland hockey goalkeeper David Harte announces retirement

David Harte of Team Ireland during the Men's Hockey warm up match between Ireland and South Africa at the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium during the 2024 Paris Summer Olympic Games in Paris
David Harte was named the FIH World Goalkeeper of the Year on two occasions

Ireland goalkeeper David Harte has retired from international hockey after almost 20 years' service.

Corkman Harte, 37, came through the ranks at Bandon Grammar School and Cork Harlequins, winning the first of his 247 Ireland caps in August 2006 aged 18 in a Celtic Cup match against France.

One of just two players to represent Ireland at two Olympic Games - Rio 2016 and Paris 2024 - Harte captained his country when they claimed bronze at the 2015 Unibet EuroHockey Championships in London.

He was twice named the FIH World Goalkeeper of the Year, in 2015 and 2016.

"I earned my first senior cap for Ireland back in 2006, and what followed has been a journey I could never have imagined," said Hate.

"Pulling on the green jersey and representing my country has been the greatest honour of my career, and one I never once took for granted.

"Over the years, I've been incredibly fortunate to have competed on some of the biggest stages in our sport - European Championships, a World Cup and Olympic Games. This was made even more special doing so shoulder to shoulder with my twin brother Conor. I’m proud of how far Irish men's hockey has come during that time and hopeful that I have played a small part in that progress.

"While this chapter comes to an end, my love for the game remains as strong as ever. I leave competing internationally with immense pride, lifelong memories, and deep gratitude for the opportunity to represent Hockey Ireland for so many years."

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