Ireland’s most capped male player Eugene Magee has formally retired from international hockey after 15 years and 295 caps at the top of the game, playing at the 2016 Olympic Games and winning European bronze in 2015.

It brings down the curtain on one of the finest careers in Irish hockey with many hailing Magee as the greatest player from the country of the modern era.

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Magee rubber-stamped his decision to step back on Monday evening with interim head coach Mark Tumilty – who worked extensively with Magee at Bann – leading the tributes.

“He has been a fantastic servant to Irish Hockey and played a key role in the success of the team over the last decade. Eugene will rightly be regarded as one of the best to have worn the green shirt.”

For Magee, himself, he added: “I have enjoyed 15 years as part of the Irish men’s hockey team and it has been my privilege to represent my country among so many talented players.

“To be able to play hockey with your friends is one thing but to compete on an international scale takes a huge amount of work from a lot of people and to them I am truly grateful.  

“International hockey has been a huge part of my life and although it will feel strange to retire, I feel very privileged to have gained all the experiences I have had and to have played my part for the team.”

Magee has played in the EHL with HGC, KHC Dragons and Banbridge.