Kilkenny goalkeeper Ryan retires
Goalkeeper PJ Ryan has become the latest Kilkenny player to retire from the inter-county hurling scene, joining James 'Cha' Fitzpatrick and Eddie Brennan who both bowed out in recent weeks.
Ryan won seven All-Ireland titles with Brian Cody's side and his list of honours also includes nine Leinster SHC titles, five National Leagues and an All-Star award from 2009.
The 34-year-old net minder, who was promoted to the Cats squad in 2002, told the Kilkenny People: "I leave with no regrets. I arrived with nothing but hope, and I left with a pocketful of medals. I was blessed to be part of Kilkenny hurling during a golden era."
The Fenians clubman played during the 2011 National League but was edged out by David Herity for the Championship starting spot. He will be most remembered for his man-of-the-match display in Kilkenny's 2009 All-Ireland final victory over Tipperary.
Remembering that game, Ryan admitted: "I worked especially hard during the weeks leading up to the 2009 All-Ireland final.
"I spent so much time working in the hurling field in Johnstown and in the ball alley with my father (ex-Kilkenny goalkeeper PJ Ryan snr) that he was nearly ready to make a return to hurling."
