KILLIAN Young said he and his team-mates with Kerry have created memories together that can never be taken away and they can only be understood by the players themselves.
In an emotion-charged statement announcing his retirement from the inter-county scene, after 14 years of sterling service, he remarked: “It has been the best time of my life playing with Kerry and I will take all of the cherished memories and friendships away with me”.
He told his fellow county men: “I am so proud to have shared a dressing room with you”
The four-time All-Ireland medal winner from Renard made his senior debut in 2006 and he has played under four different managers. He was the longest serving member of the 2019 squad and previously represented Kerry at minor and under 21 level.
“The time has come for me to move onto the next chapter. To say it was an honour to play with Kerry is an understatement – I’ve loved every single minute of it and if I could roll back the years and do it all again, I would in a heartbeat,” Young declared.
He acknowledged that he wouldn’t have had the success he has had without the coaching, development and constant support received from those in the Renard club from a young age. “Each one of you contributed hugely to my career and allowed me one of the highlights of my life so far – bringing Sam Maguire down Renard Road and into our clubhouse. For those memories, I will always be indebted to you,” he told his club members.
Killian said the Kerry supporters were a big part of his journey and their presence “on those magic days in Croke Park” was often what got the team over the line.
“To the young Kerry footballers around the county – believe in yourself, work hard and you
Kerry manager Peter Keane thanked Killian for his service to Kerry over many years.
“Being a neighbour’s child, means I have watched Killian’s football progress from a very young age. Killian’s knowledge and experience in the dressing room was invaluable for such a young team,” he said.
Former managers Eamonn Fitzmaurice and Jack O’Connor also praised the huge contribution Killian Young made to the Kerry team over the years.
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