End of an era as Maguire steps away

LGFA news

One of Cavan ladies’ greatest-ever players, Aisling Maguire, has announced her retirement from inter-county football.

The Templeport forward (33), made her debut for Cavan in 2002 and has been a regular with the Breffni ladies since. Maguire, née Doonan, has long been regarded as one of the best attackers in the sport.

The left-footed star was known for her stylish dummies and brilliant ball-striking. She captained the Cavan ladies to the All-Ireland Intermediate Championship final in 2011 and was one of the mainstays of the side who won that title two years later, defeating Tipperary in the final at Croke Park.

Aisling picked up the Player of the Match award on that occasion, scoring 0-4 and wowing a national television audience with her superb forward play which included a converted sideline kick, a rare feat at HQ in men’s or ladies football.

A five-time TG4 All Star nominee, Doonan was named on the Division 2 National League team of the year in four successive years from 2015-2018.

Doonan also featured on the 2011 and 2012 Division 2 teams, while she was named on the 2010 Division 3 team, making it seven Team of the League appearances across the board.

"The time is right to call time on my inter-county career with Cavan," she said.

"I’ve enjoyed some terrific days and there are memories banked to last a lifetime. It’s been an incredible journey and I’d like to wish our new county team manager Gerry Moane and all of the girls the very best for the 2021 season."

Doonan last played for Cavan in the 2020 Lidl National League, with injury ruling her out of the TG4 Championship.

Among many tributes on social media, Gearoid McKiernan posted: "The most consistent Cavan footballer that there has been over the last 20 years. Incredible scoring and personal honors in that time. Enjoy the break."

See next week’s print edition for more.