Mayo great Cora Staunton has called time on her AFLW career after racking up 50 appearances with the GWS Giants.
The RTÉ Sport analyst was the first international player to join an AFLW list back in 2017 and became the club's all-time leading goal-kicker and appearance record holder.
In her time with the club, Staunton kicked 55 goals, second in the all-time AFLW list alongside Melbourne’s Kate Hore and Carlton’s Darcy Vescio and three behind Melbourne’s Tayla Harris.
The 41-year-old joins fellow Irish player Brid Stack in announcing her retirement following the completion of season seven.
Speaking to RTÉ Radio 1, she said: "It is (a huge decision) but one I made months ago. I suppose it has only been released to the media now by the Giants.
"I'm overwhelmed this morning because I got lots of messages from people, who didn't realise. My close family and friends knew a couple of months ago. It was a big decision but one ultimately I'm very happy with.
"When I arrived in 2017 I thought I'd be there for one year. To do six season was huge and especially at my age (is something I'm grateful for).
"I knew last season when we had a change of manager over there and the direction of the club was going a little bit differently (that it was heading towards departure).
"There was a lot more youth. The club are probably a few years away from achieving success over there now so it probably made my decision easier. I knew I was not going to be part of that success long-term.
"I've been lucky to be playing sport for a long time. I did 23 or 24 years with Mayo and lucky enough at 35 to play professional sport for six years. I'm involved now with Galway camogie in a role with them which I'm really enjoying, seeing the other side of sport."
Staunton's legendary sporting career will continue in club football.
She added: "I'll still tip away and play with Carnacon and enjoy a little less pressure. I've been used to having a lot of pressure on me since I was 12 or 13. I'll just enjoy it as I haven't played properly with them in the last few seasons."
Giants head of women’s football Briana Harvey praised Staunton for her contribution to the sport.
"I congratulate Cora on not only everything she has achieved in our game of Aussie Rules, but throughout her entire sporting career," Harvey told the club website.
"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."
