A popular senior Kilkenny hurler has announced his retirement from inter-county action.
Dicksboro man Cillian Buckley has served 13 years on the senior panel, joining at the age of 19 in 2012.
Since then he’s had 56 championship appearances in the black and amber and his achievements include three All Ireland medals at the highest level.
Kilkenny GAA has posted the following on its website just before 10am:
“Kilkenny Senior Hurler and Dicksboro clubman Cillian Buckley has today announced his retirement from inter county hurling, following an impressive 13 years and 56 championship appearances in the black and amber.
Cillian joined the senior panel in 2012 at 19 years of age and, during his distinguished career, won eight Leinster titles, five National League titles, captaining Kilkenny to the League title in 2018, and three All-Ireland titles. Winning two All-Stars, in 2014 and 2015, were also testament to his contributions to Kilkenny hurling.
Cillian’s inter county journey began in 2009 when he joined the Kilkenny minor panel. In 2010, Cillian captained his side to the All-Ireland Final and proudly climbed the steps of the Hogan Stand to lift the Irish Press Cup following Kilkenny’s victory over Clare.
Kilkenny Senior Hurling Manager Derek Lyng thanked Cillian, saying “Cillian has been a true servant to Kilkenny and I’m honoured to have had the opportunity to work with Cillian and witness first-hand his commitment to excellence and the high standards he held himself to throughout his career. Cillian was a brilliant team player with a great attitude and I wish him well in his retirement.”
County Board Chairman, PJ Kenny paid tribute to Cillian, saying “On behalf of Kilkenny County Board and all associated with Kilkenny hurling, I would like to thank Cillian for his service to Kilkenny and for all the great memories he has given us and all the supporters over the years. I wish Cillian the very best for the future.”
Player Profile
Cillian Buckley (Dicksboro)
Joined Panel: 2012
Honours:
3 All-Ireland SHC (2012, 2014, 2015); 8 Leinster SHC (2014-2016, 2020-2024); 5 NHL (2012-2014, 2018, 2021); 1 Walsh Cup (2017); 1 Leinster U21 HC (2012); 1 All-Ireland MHC (2010) Captain; 2 Leinster MHC (2009, 2010); 2 All-Ireland Senior Colleges HC (2009, 2010); 1 Kilkenny SHC (2017); 1 Kilkenny IHC (2010); 1 Kilkenny U21 HC (2009); 2 Kilkenny MHC (2009, 2010); 2 All Stars (2014, 2015)”
