Declan Hannon praises wife Louise Cantillon’s ‘love, care and huge sacrifice’ as he retires
Declan Hannon has announced his retirement from Limerick GAA after 15 years, praising his wife Louise Cantillon for her support in ‘this chapter of our life’.
In a statement shared on Tuesday, the hurler penned: ‘Following 15 years of representing Limerick, I have made the decision to retire from inter-county hurling.
‘It has been one of the greatest honours of my life to wear the Limerick jersey, to represent my county, and share the highest of highs with people I love.’
Declan Hannon. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile
‘Hurling has been a major part of my life since I was a child. It tested me, it humbled me, and it gave me moments I will carry in my heart forever,’ he said, before he made the rounds with his thank yous.
‘To my family, thank you for your relentless love, loyalty, and belief, in the bright days and especially in the darker ones. My Dad Joe, Mam, Bridget, my brothers Jody and Killian, from the pitch in Adare to the steps of the Hogan Stand, you were always there and it meant everything to me.’
Declan Hannon and Louise Cantillon. Pic: Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile
‘A special thank you to my wife Louise, to have had you by my side for this chapter of our life has been such a joy. Your love, care and huge sacrifice has been instrumental in allowing me to chase my dreams,’ he gushed over his wife of two years.
‘To my in-laws, wider family and friends, thank you all for being part of this story and being a constant presence. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did.’
Declan Hannon and Louise Cantillon. Pic: Louise Cantillon/Instagram
‘I want to thank my club Adare GAA and the Adare community, all the coaches and teammates from underage up to senior level, your guidance and encouragement shaped the path ahead. I will never forget returning home to the village in 2018. That feeling will live with me always,’ he continued.
‘To the Limerick County Board, those in the various positions along the way, thank you for contributing so much to the success over the years.’
Declan Hannon. Pic: Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile
‘I also want to acknowledge all those who have played such a huge part in the fundraising side of the GAA for Limerick, both here at home and overseas, your generosity is so hugely appreciated.
‘To JP, Noreen and the entire McManus Family, thank you for your unwavering support to Limerick GAA, both locally and nationally, your support has been extraordinary. I can’t thank you enough,’ the sportsman concluded.
And with that, Declan Hannon has hung up his boots are a decade and a half playing for his county. Comhghairdeachas!
