One of Connacht's longest serving professional players, Galway's Eoin McKeon, announced his retirement from the game this week.
McKeon, who played with Galwegians RFC, was a member of Connacht's PRO12 winning side. He made 137 appearances for his home province, and was also selected on Ireland U20, Emerging Ireland, and Wolfhound teams.
The popular and talented 29-years old backrow forward says he only this week decided to officially hang up his boots.
"It was always going to come to an end at some stage, and I’m happy that I am now in a position to decide what is best for me.
“I wish to thank Connacht for the opportunity to play for my province. From inviting me into the academy to giving me my first professional contract, it has been an amazing experience. To the players I met along the way, I consider you all lifelong friends. I want to thank the coaches too, they helped to mould me into the person I am today and for that I am grateful."
McKeon, who has a master’s degree in business administration and management, says he had an "amazing career with plenty of ups and downs, but it wouldn’t have been possible without the help of so many", particularly familyand friends.
Connacht coach Andy Friend, described McKeon as "a great team man and a very talented footballer".
"He’s a Galway man, Connacht pride themselves on their homegrown players, and he’s certainly left a legacy there in terms of what he’s contributed to Connacht rugby. It’s always sad when you see somebody choosing to hang up their boots when you still believe he’s got something there to show."
However, Friend says he "can walk away very proud of what he has given Connacht rugby. He’s certainly a player up there with the best of them."
