Waterford’s Tony Browne retires from inter-county hurling

Statement issued by the GPA on behalf of Tony Browne

April 17, 2014

“I would like to take this opportunity to officially announce my retirement from inter-county hurling.

“To do so is always a tough decision for any athlete but I know I have been blessed in so many ways to have experienced what I have with the Waterford hurling teams over the past three decades.

“I have loved and embraced every moment wearing the Waterford jersey from my earliest days. However, I know the time is now right for me to bring the curtain down on my county career.
“I am so proud in knowing I have given my all to Waterford hurling. It is now time for others to enjoy and cherish the same honour and pride that I felt over the past 23 years representing Waterford.

“Throughout those years I had the honour of playing with and against some of the greatest players ever seen in the game. I would like to thank all of the past and present players for their wonderful support and friendship throughout my career.

“I’d also like to take this opportunity to thank all the coaches the back-room teams over the years and indeed the medical staff who helped me to prolong my career way beyond expectation.

“I was very fortunate to have played under so many fantastic managers, all of whom contributed greatly to my career.

“I would like to pay a special tribute to my club Mount Sion and my club colleagues for their support and guidance in helping me fulfil my potential as a hurler and as a person. The backing of my club enabled me to compete at the very highest level and follow my dreams.

“It goes without saying the Waterford supporters are amongst the greatest in the GAA. I personally want to thank you for everything all through the years. I will cherish those cheers and your support for all time.

“I so look forward to supporting Waterford GAA for many years ahead and wish the current players and management the very best for the future.

“Finally to my family I sincerely thank you for your understanding, loyalty and support I will be forever grateful for all you have done.”

Désie Abú!

Tony Browne

Best wishes to the legendary Tony Browne who has announced his retirement from Inter Co.Hurling.Thanks for the many memories. Inspirational

— Waterford GAA (@WaterfordGAA) April 17, 2014

On behalf of Cnoc Sion we wish Tony Browne all the best in his retirement from inter-county hurling!A true soldier of the #Deise #TonyBrowne

— Mount Sion GAA (@MountSionGAA) April 17, 2014

It's not just all of #Waterford who loved this man. Respected all over Ireland – what a great career, Tony Browne! pic.twitter.com/dxuviCoOug

— Des Cahill (@sportsdes) April 17, 2014

@WaterfordGAA congrats to the man that is Tony Browne on a wonderful career. A role model for a generation of intercounty hurlers #respect

— Diarmuid O'Sullivan (@dsully3) April 17, 2014

Another great Waterford warrior departs without a Celtic Cross. Oh the unfairness of sport. What great memories we all have of Tony Browne

— Nickey Brennan (@nickeybrennan) April 17, 2014

Deise Abu! @WaterfordGAA Tony Browne Nice man Great hurler #Hurling #legend @gaelicplayers http://t.co/RkYUS65Hgl pic.twitter.com/2N6G8CcwFl

— Sportsfile (@sportsfile) April 17, 2014

Tony Browne legend and leader of @WaterfordGAA. Enjoy retirement and best of luck with new business @BrowneMobile #topman #gaa

— Brendan Cummins (@BrenCummins1) April 17, 2014

Tony Browne a sad loss to hurling, does not need a Celtic cross to be remembered as a heroic man, and that he was and is

— daithi regan (@daithi_regan) April 17, 2014