McDonough follows Black through international exit

Irish senior women’s coach Gene Muller’s young squad yesterday lost one of its most talismanic figures after Jenny McDonough announced her decision to retire from international hockey. The Belfast Harlequins star departs the international scene having amassed 117 caps in eight years, citing increasing personal and work commitments – plus her upcoming wedding – as the reasons behind her exit. “Unfortunately, I am unable to give my full commitment to the build up to the EuroHockey Nations Championship in Holland this August due to my forthcoming wedding, work and other personal commitments,” she said.

“There is a clear focus towards the Olympics in London in 2012 and as I am unable to commit to this campaign I feel it is time for me to step aside and retire from the team.” McDonough becomes the second Irish international with more than a century of caps to exit the international stage in 24 hours, after Mark Black announced his retirement from the men’s side yesterday. Muller admitted he was sorry to see McDonough go: “Jenny has been an asset to the national team over the past few years, and I am sad to see her step down. She has always been a dedicated and professional international player.  Her attitude was exemplary and she is truly an example to other players.  She will be missed in our team.” McDonough thanked former Irish coach Riet Kuper for giving her a shot at international hockey, but also had some words for Muller and her team-mates. “Gene has been an inspiring coach, I have learnt a lot from him and I am sorry that my time playing under him was so short,” she said. “I am confident the team will be extremely successful under his direction. I would like to wish the girls every success for the future, there is fantastic talent in the squad and I am certain that they are capable of achieving.”