‘A true warrior’

Cork camogie legend Gemma O’Connor has confirmed her retirement from the intercounty game. A winner of nine All-Ireland titles with Cork, Gemma played with the senior team for 18 seasons, making her debut in 2002.

The defender, who captained the side in 2007, was recognised 11 times as an All-Star, winning six awards in a row from 2004-2009.

She also won many league and Munster medals, as well as a minor All-Ireland medal.

Briege Corkery, who won seven All-Ireland titles alongside O’Connor, said: “Congrats on an unreal career. Giving everything for your county for so many years, looking forward to reminiscing great days. A true warrior.”

Former Cork goalkeeper Aoife Murray, who retired in 2020, said: “The purest definition of Corkness, a true rebel. You were never afraid of failure and trained/played with honesty of effort and attitude. You always made the journey so much fun Gem, even in low times you’d manage to make us laugh, the craic we had!”

O’Connor, who is a member of the Irish Defence Forces, will continue to line out for her club, St Finbarr’s.

On Twitter, the club said: “Gemma O’Connor. One of the greatest to ever play the sport of camogie. A living legend. But more importantly, a teammate, a friend and an idol to so many - thanks for doing the club and your family proud.”

Furthermore, the Women’s GPA said: “Peerless and fearless! A massive tribute to the retiring Gemma O’Connor. A record 11 All-Stars in camogie, nine All-Irelands, POTY (Player of the Year) in ‘15. Natural leader with physical dominance and unmatched bravery, Gemma has left an indelible mark on the game! Every continued success in retirement.”

For more on Gemma’s retirement, see Game On on page 28.