Roscommon player announces intercounty retirement
Ultan Harney has announced his retirement from intercounty football. Picture: NPHO/Ryan Byrne
Roscommon senior footballer Ultan Harney has announced his retirement from intercounty football.
Over the course of his senior intercounty career, the Clann na nGael player made 68 appearances in the Primrose and Blue, scoring 2-29 for his county.
A powerful and commanding presence at midfield, Ultan represented Roscommon with pride, determination and unwavering commitment throughout a senior career that began in 2015 under manager John Evans, when he made his Championship debut against London.
At senior level, he was part of the Roscommon panels that claimed three Connacht senior football championship titles in 2017, 2019 and 2026, along with four Allianz Football League Division 2 titles in 2015, 2018, 2020 and 2022.
His journey in the Roscommon jersey started at minor level in 2012 under Gareth Carroll, winning a Connacht minor championship title, before continuing under Fergal O’Donnell in 2013, when Roscommon reached the All-Ireland semi-final.
Further success followed at U-21 level, where he won back-to-back Connacht titles in 2014 and 2015 under managers Nigel Dineen and Mark Dowd respectively. He was a key member of the 2014 side that reached the All-Ireland Final against Dublin, famously scoring a superb goal in the dramatic semi-final victory over Cork.
Renowned for his physical presence, ball-winning ability and fearless approach to the game, Ultan was a formidable competitor who always gave everything for the Roscommon jersey. His career was interrupted by injury setbacks, but his determination to overcome those challenges and return to intercounty football was a testament to his resilience, character and love for the game.
Reflecting on his retirement, Ultan said: “Roscommon football has been a huge part of my life and representing my county has been one of my greatest privileges. It’s given me some of the best days of my life.
“I’d like to thank all the managers, coaches and backroom teams I’ve worked with over the years, but in particular the players I’ve shared this journey with. We’ve all shared the same passion and love for football in this county.
“A special thanks to my family, particularly my parents, Eamon and Kathleen, and especially my wife, Kayleigh. They’ve supported me through all the highs but, more importantly, through the setbacks and difficult days. I couldn’t have done it without them.
“I’d also like to thank all the Roscommon supporters for their incredible support over the years, and everyone at Clann na nGael for their continued support throughout my career.
“I’ll always be proud to have worn the Roscommon jersey and I wish everyone involved with Roscommon GAA all the very best going forward.” Roscommon GAA said it wished to sincerely thank Ultan Harney of Clann na nGael following his decision to retire from intercounty football, bringing to a close a distinguished career representing his county in the Primrose and Blue.
Roscommon GAA Chairperson Thomas Murray paid tribute to Ultan’s contribution: “On behalf of Roscommon GAA, I want to sincerely thank Ultan for his outstanding service and dedication to Roscommon football over the years.
“From his early success at minor and U-21 level through to his senior career, Ultan has been a tremendous servant to our county. He was a fierce competitor, a hugely committed player and someone who never took a backward step when wearing the Roscommon jersey.
“His resilience in overcoming injury setbacks and his determination to return to the highest level speak volumes about his character. To finish his intercounty journey in a year when Roscommon reclaimed the Connacht Senior title is a fitting way to bring the curtain down on a distinguished career.
“We also recognise the enormous support provided by Ultan’s family, particularly his parents Eamon and Kathleen, his wife Kayleigh, and his club Clann na nGael, throughout his intercounty career.
“Ultan can look back on his achievements with great pride, and we wish him and his family every happiness and success in the years ahead. We also look forward to seeing him continue to enjoy his football with Clann na nGael,” he said.
Roscommon GAA extends its sincere gratitude to Ultan for his dedication, loyalty and contribution to Roscommon football. His commitment to the Primrose and Blue over so many years is greatly appreciated.
