Derry’s Chrissy McKaigue has announced his intercounty retirement.
The 35-year-old versatile defender made his senior debut for Derry in 2008, represented the county in all four league divisions and claimed Ulster senior titles in 2022 and 2023.
The Slaughtneil club man captained Derry to that breakthrough Anglo Celt triumph in 2022, which was the county’s first Ulster SFC success since 1998. He finished the year as an All Star.
McKaigue also had a two-year stint playing Aussie Rules with Sydney Swans but on his return in late 2011, he became a key figure with the Derry footballers and the Slaughtneil footballers and hurlers.
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McKaigue’s decision to step away from the intercounty scene is a blow to new Derry manager Paddy Tally, who would have been hoping to utilise his leadership in the dressingroom.
Derry GAA stated: “As a former Derry senior captain and an All-Star recipient in 2022, Chrissy leaves a legacy etched in determination, leadership, and excellence.
“Throughout his career — 149 senior appearances — Chrissy was more than just a player. His leadership both on and off the pitch guided Derry through some of its most defining moments in recent years, re-establishing the county as a force to be reckoned with in Gaelic football.
“Chrissy’s passion for Derry GAA was evident in every match, every tackle, and every rallying cry to his team.
“His All-Star recognition in 2022 was a fitting testament to his skill, work ethic, and commitment, but his contributions went far beyond individual accolades. Chrissy embodied what it means to play for your county — with pride, loyalty, and unwavering belief.
“While his chapter as a player closes, there is no doubt that Chrissy McKaigue’s impact on Gaelic games in Derry is far from over. His leadership, vision, and dedication ensure he will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of the sport in the county, inspiring generations to come.
“Thank you, Chrissy, for your remarkable service to Derry football. You retire as a Derry great, and your influence will continue to shine brightly in the years ahead.”
The announcement comes just four days after Tally was handed a three-year term as Derry boss, with McKaigue wanting to inform the new Oak Leaf manager early to allow the Tyrone native plan ahead for 2025.
“The parting message from me is simple. It is now time for everyone in Derry to reunite under this team and management,” McKaigue told RTÉ.
“Time for them to get back behind this team like they were when we won the recent Ulster championships and NFL title.
“The supporters have to know the energy and inspiration that we felt when everyone in the county was behind us in those recent seasons — and the boys need to feel that again now.”
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