Patrick Maher recently stepped back from his notable 16-year intercounty hurling career. This skilled forward player from the Lorrha-Dorrha club has been considered the ‘bread winner’ of the high-performing Tipperary team that secured All-Ireland championships in 2010, ‘16 and ‘19.
Maher’s style and influence on the game was reminiscent of great Tipperary attackers of the past, like Donie O’Connells, Cormac Bonners and Bobby Ryans. Nicky English, a player and manager who knows what it takes to win an All-Ireland title, believes that Maher played a crucial role in the forward line of the team. He views him as the key ball winner, who worked tirelessly, selflessly, and always helped to create opportunities for his team mates, inspiring them with his commitment and honesty. Maher, who will be 35 the next Saturday, started his journey with his first match in the 2009 Waterford Crystal Cup, and since then, he’s been an essential part of Tipp’s triumphs.
Maher’s first championship season in 2010 was an impressive one. Despite a startling loss to Cork in Munster’s first round, the team rallied back, with Maher leading the way as the left-wing forward. They made their victorious path through the qualifiers, ultimately winning against Kilkenny in the All-Ireland final. A week after the victory, he was part of the team that nabbed the under-21 title.
English tells us that “He was well-loved, especially among Tipperary fans. Maher remained a consistent player throughout his career, even as new managers took over, earning his spot on the field even in his late career years.”
After shining brilliantly in the 2010 All-Ireland inter-county medals by completing a full set, following his victory in the minor league in 2007, he later garnered five senior Munster medals as well as All-Star accolades in 2014 and 2016.
Tipperary GAA announced his retirement on Monday, putting an end to his illustrious career.
“Having spent 16 fulfilling years as a senior hurler for Tipperary, I feel it’s the right moment to step down from inter-county hurling. I consider it an immense honour and a dream realised to have worn the Tipperary jersey.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to all the players I was fortunate to have been teammates with. The friendships I’ve forged and memories we’ve created over the years will always be treasured.
“I owe a great debt of thanks to the management and backroom teams for their ceaseless support and dedication, which immensely contributed to me unlocking my full potential.”