David Burke retires from senior inter-county hurling
David Burke captained Galway to All-Ireland SHC glory in 2017. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
By Cian O'Connell
Galway's 2017 All-Ireland SHC winning captain David Burke has retired from senior inter-county hurling.
The gifted St Thomas' clubman won four All-Stars during a successful 16 year stint with Galway.
In a statement released on Friday morning by Galway GAA, Burke acknowledged those who assisted him. "Galway hurling has been an integral part of my life as far back as I can remember both as a supporter and a player," Burke reflected.
"It has been an honour to represent my county, club and family for 16 seasons at senior intercounty level. Throughout this time, I have shared a dressing room with great friends, teammates, managers, coaches and backroom personnel, in particular, Micheal Donoghue for having faith in me to help lead the county to All Ireland success in 2017.
"Playing at inter-county level takes a huge level of personal sacrifice and so I wish to take this opportunity to thank my wife, Laura, our two kids, my parents John and Paula, my sister, my brothers, in-laws and the St Thomas’ community for their unwavering support and understanding of my commitment to Galway hurling.
"A mention also to the Galway hurling supporters who have always stood by the team along the way, the Galway County Board, longstanding Galway sponsor Pat and Una McDonagh (Supermac’s) and my school St. Brigid’s College Loughrea.
"There were incredible highs and excruciating lows, but the privilege was never lost on me or taken for granted. Gaillimh Abú!"
Galway senior hurling manager Micheál Donoghue paid tribute to Burke's sterling service. "In every way, David Burke has represented Galway GAA with the utmost distinction," Donoghue says.
"His career sets the standard for what it truly means to wear the county jersey – defined by elite performance, unwavering commitment, selfless leadership and genuine humility.
"His influence will endure not only among the players he has shared the field with, but throughout the wider GAA community. An exceptional captain, David possessed a rare ability to inspire belief and trust in his teammates when it mattered most.
"He will always be remembered for the immense pride and joy he brought to Galway supporters, most notably through the unforgettable All-Ireland Senior Championship triumph of 2017.
"Throughout his career, he has shown the deepest respect for the maroon and white jersey and for everyone it represents. We wish David, Laura, and their family every success and happiness in the years ahead."
Paul Bellew, Galway GAA chairperson, praised Burke's service. "On behalf of everyone in Galway GAA, I want to thank and congratulate David on an outstanding career in the maroon and white," Bellew says.
"One of our greatest-ever players, he combined exceptional hurling ability with unrivalled leadership qualities, both on and off the field. This culminated in David captaining Galway to the 2017 All-Ireland Senior Hurling title. He holds a unique distinction in being named Man of the Match in both All-Ireland senior inter-county and club finals, a true testament to his consistency and his ability to deliver on the biggest stages.
"He is a fantastic ambassador for Galway GAA and a pleasure to deal with over the past few years. We look forward to seeing David continue to represent St Thomas’ in the years ahead, and I have no doubt that he will be involved with Galway teams at all levels in the future too."
