Sinéad Burke calls time on stellar inter-county career with Galway

To make the decision to retire is always going to be a major decision for any elite athlete. News of Sinéad Burke’s retirement broke recently, which even took Sinéad by surprise.

Sinéad, who now resides in Armagh, had informed the Senior Management of Galway Ladies that she wouldn’t be available for the upcoming season. Speaking to Sinéad in the last week, she has now confirmed that yes, she is retiring.

Sinéad, or ‘Burkie’ as she is affectionately known, is a native of Oughterard and a primary school teacher.

She began club football with Killannin, before moving to Ballyboden St. Enda’s when her career path took her to Dublin.

She now resides in Armagh and plays her club football with Armagh Harps. Sinéad contributed significantly to them winning their first county title in 22 years in October 2020.

We have no doubt that every individual in this county involved with Ladies Football will stand side by side with us at county level to take this opportunity to thank Sinéad sincerely for the massive contribution she has made to Galway Ladies since she first commenced playing county at the tender age of 13.

She linked up with the county senior team in 2007 and Burke would become a winner of 9 Senior Connacht medals, a Division League title and All Ireland Senior Championship Runners Up medal.

She captained Galway with such dignity and poise in 2013 and 2014, while winning the Division 2 League title in 2014 ensured Galway Ladies returned to Division 1 football. Sinéad is a true leader both on and off the field. A TG4 All Star recipient in 2018 and 2019, she will always be an All Star in our eyes. We thank her for all the sacrifices she has made in order to fulfil her commitment to her county, particularly the many hours she spent travelling. Galway Ladies Football was very much enriched having her on the field of play and there is no doubt she will be sorely missed.

We know that this is not the end for you Sinéad, just a change in direction and we would like to take this opportunity to wish you and Willie continued, health, happiness and success in your new life in Armagh.

Go n-eirí an t-ádh leat Sinéad

Galway LGFAn