Aghamore’s Brendan Harrison has announced his retirement from inter county football.
The All Star winning defender played 67 times for Mayo since joining the senior panel in 2013.
Brendan played 35 times in the national league with his debut coming in February 2014 against Kildare.
He played 32 championship games in total also.
Having won five Connacht titles in 2013, 2014, 2015, 2020 and 2021, Brendan won an All Star in 2016 and was nominated again in 2017.
His last game coincidentally was also against Kildare in the Allianz National Football League, in Carrick on Shannon in 2022.
With injuries hindering his playing time in recent years, Brendan Harrison’s commitment to getting back in the Mayo jersey is something that players and supporter alike have the height of respect for.
Mayo GAA Cathaoirleach Seamus Touhy thanked Brendan for his time with Mayo in an official release on the Mayo GAA website:
“Brendan wore his heart on his sleeve, he was brave, committed and always gave 100%. Brendan was one of those players supporters loved. He was exciting to watch, and he lit up Hastings Insurance MacHale Park and Croke Park on so many occasions. Everyone associated with Mayo GAA would like to wish Brendan well in his retirement.”
Statement from Brendan Harrison:
Playing for Mayo was something I always treasured. From the very first day I pulled on the jersey at underage level, I was conscious of the honour it was to wear the green and red. I played alongside brilliant players and under outstanding management teams and I thank each and every one of them for everything they did.
I had my problems with injuries over the past five seasons and while that was frustrating, I look back on my time with Mayo with very happy memories. Injuries mean that I cannot continue to train at the required level. I thank my club Aghamore and my local community of Kilkelly for their support at all stages and my wife Natasha and my entire family who made many
sacrifices so that I could play for Mayo. I look forward to being around for the many milestones ahead for our three young children.
I wish Mayo every success in 2024 and beyond and know that the players involved now will continue to represent the county with pride.
Statement from Mayo Manager Kevin McStay:
Brendan Harrison walks away from intercounty football with his head held high. Mayo people will never forget his performances during the 2016-2019 seasons, in particular, including masterful displays in the 2016 and 2017 All-Ireland finals.
He was always a beautifully balanced footballer who combined real attacking flair with a penchant for the tighter confines of man marking.
Injuries played havoc with his career, alas. We had hoped he would come back in 2024. At 31, he is young enough to continue playing on. Unfortunately, his injuries mean he has to call it a day. It was a pleasure to work with him during 2023 and he was a highly regarded and deeply popular figure in the Mayo panel.
(statements credit to Mayo GAA)
