Nov 14,2024
Katie Mullan has stepped down as captain of the Ireland women's hockey team, but insists she has no plans to retire.
The 30-year-old has captained the team for eight years, including leading her country to a first-ever Olympic Games appearance in 2020 as well as a World Cup final appearance in 2018, when Ireland came up short against the Netherlands.
Primarily a pacey goal-scoring forward, Mullan has been integral to Ireland’s rise on the international stage, forging a reputation as a playmaker and goalscorer as well as a strong leader.
"Captaining Ireland has been the greatest privilege and honour of my life," she said.
"For eight unforgettable years, I’ve always focused on what’s best for the team and this decision is no different.
"I believe the time is right for me to pass on the armband. I’m not ready to retire from playing as I feel I still have much more to give to the Irish shirt."
The Derry native came through the Ballymoney club and captained her country at underage level as well as UCD in the EY Hockey League.
Mullan made her debut for the Irish in 2012 before assuming captaincy in 2017.
