Kilkenny hurling lost another star of the golden era on Wednesday night, as goalkeeper PJ Ryan announced his retirement from the game at inter-county level.
The 34-year-old now joins former team mates Eddie Brennan and James ‘Cha’ Fitzpatrick as the third inter-county player to announce his departure from the Kilkenny hurling panel before the start of the new season.
The Fenians net minder won seven All-Ireland titles, nine Leinster SHC titles, five National Leagues, three Walsh Cups and two Railway Cups with the Cats, as well as an All-Star award in 2009.
Indeed, the 2009 season will be the one most fondly recalled by his fans. Ryan was instrumental in landing the famous four-in-a-row. A series of outstanding saves ensured his side’s 2-22 to 0-23 victory over Tipperary, and also saw Ryan named Man of the Match.
Having joined the panel in 2002, Ryan quickly established himself as a very capable alternative to black and amber legend James McGarry. He was the starting goalkeeper throughout last year’s National Hurling League, but became the number two to David Herity when the championship got underway.
The Fenians man said he had no regrets as he departed.
“I was blessed to be part of Kilkenny hurling during a golden era,” he said.
Hurling, as much as anything, was very much the family business for Ryan. His father, PJ snr, won three All-Irelands as sub ‘keeper during the Noel Skehan-dominated era of the 1970s.
It is expected that Ryan will continue playing hurling at club level with Fenians.
A statement on the Kilkenny GAA website from the county board paid tribute to his contributions down through the years.
“Well done PJ on a fantastic career and thanks for the wonderful memories.”
