After 13 remarkable years and 56 championship appearances, Kilkenny’s Senior Hurler and Dicksboro clubman, Cillian Buckley, has announced his retirement from inter-county hurling.
Buckley’s journey with Kilkenny hurling began in 2009 when he joined the minor panel. In 2010, he captained the minors to an All-Ireland victory over Clare, lifting the Irish Press Cup in triumph. This early promise translated into a stellar senior career starting in 2012 at just 19 years of age.
Cillian Buckley Announces his Retirement. Click kn the link below for the full statement. https://t.co/tPmGmchOuC
— Kilkenny GAA (@KilkennyCLG) August 1, 2024
Career Highlights and Achievements
Over his illustrious career, Buckley secured an impressive haul of titles:
- All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championships: 3 (2012, 2014, 2015)
- Leinster Senior Hurling Championships: 8 (2014-2016, 2020-2024)
- National Hurling League Titles: 5 (2012-2014, 2018, 2021)
- Walsh Cup: 1 (2017)
- Leinster Under-21 Hurling Championship: 1 (2012)
- All-Ireland Minor Hurling Championship: 1 (2010, Captain)
- Leinster Minor Hurling Championships: 2 (2009, 2010)
- All-Ireland Senior Colleges Hurling Championships: 2 (2009, 2010)
- Kilkenny Senior Hurling Championship: 1 (2017)
- Kilkenny Intermediate Hurling Championship: 1 (2010)
- Kilkenny Under-21 Hurling Championship: 1 (2009)
- Kilkenny Minor Hurling Championships: 2 (2009, 2010)
- All-Star Awards: 2 (2014, 2015)
Tributes and Reflections
Kilkenny Senior Hurling Manager, Derek Lyng, praised Buckley’s dedication and impact: “Cillian has been a true servant to Kilkenny. It was an honor to work with him and witness his unwavering commitment to excellence. His high standards and brilliant team spirit were truly inspiring. I wish him all the best in his retirement.”
PJ Kenny, Chairman of the Kilkenny County Board, echoed these sentiments: “Cillian’s contributions to Kilkenny hurling have been immense. On behalf of the County Board and all associated with Kilkenny hurling, I extend our deepest gratitude. He has given us unforgettable memories and has been a fantastic ambassador for the sport. We wish him the very best for the future.”
