After ten years, seven All-Irelands and two All-Stars, Jonny Cooper has retired from inter-county football.
The 33-year-old made his championship debut in 2012, and has been a mainstay for the Sky Blues ever since. Renowned as a tight and tigerish defender, Cooper was an ever-present stalwart of the Dubs defence.
He played his final game for his county in July, when they lost to Kerry in the All-Ireland semi-final.
Cooper posted the news in a statement on his Twitter account this afternoon.
“Going to Hill 16 from hip height with my mother had me completely hooked,” Cooper said in his retirement statement. “I have had the immense honour and privilege to play on the Dublin senior football team for the past 11 years.
“To the loyal and passionate Dublin supporters. Many times electricity ran through my veins – I have never felt more alive than in front of you. I appreciate this deep connection; your support on the good days and the not so good days is unrivalled.”
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“To my friends that have backed me no matter what – although I missed a few occasions along the way I always had the aim to make you proud. Whatever I possess is simply gleaned from you.”
“To my club Na Fianna that I am so proud to represent – managers, coaches, team-mates, parents, friends and tireless volunteers that have taught me so much since I was four, I look forward with great excitement to helping in whatever ways I can in what’s to come next in our special community.
“To my remarkable family and Saoirse who’s [sic] relentless love, work ethic, support and encouragement is the main reason I got the opportunity in the first place and only reason I have lasted the few years I did.
“Finally, to the many Dublin teammates, managers, coaches, performance staff, medical staff and support staff all along the journey – words can’t cover the ground to effectively express my sincere gratitude, respect and admiration for all that you sacrafice and what you have done for my family, Saoirse and I.
“Friendships and magical memories that are locked in to the end of day, with the worlds’ greatest thief not able to take even just one away. I love and care for you all deeply.
Thank you.”
