Harney calls time on Roscommon inter-county career

Clann na nGael's Ultan Harney has confirmed his retirement from inter-county football with Roscommon.

In a statement paying tribute to his contribution, Roscommon GAA paid tribute to Harney's "distinguished career representing his county in the Primrose and Blue".

Harney made his senior football championship debut under manager John Evans against London in 2015 and made 68 appearances in the Roscommon colours, contributing 2-29 for his county.

At senior level, Harney was part of 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 championship title, before continuing under Fergal O'Donnell in 2013, when Roscommon reached the All-Ireland semi-final.

Further success followed at U21 level, where Harney 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 U21 final against Dublin, famously scoring a superb goal in the dramatic semi-final victory over Cork.

Roscommon GAA described Harney as "a powerful and commanding presence at midfield" who was "renowned for his physical presence, ball-winning ability and fearless approach to the game".

"Harney 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 inter-county football was a testament to his resilience, character and love for the game," the Roscommon GAA statement said.

Reflecting on his retirement, Harney said playing for Roscommon "has been one of my greatest privileges, giving 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," Harney stated.

Harney concluded by wishing everyone involved with Roscommon GAA "all the very best going forward".

Roscommon GAA chairperson Thomas Murray paid tribute to Harney's "outstanding service" to Roscommon GAA.

"From his early success at minor and U21 level through to his senior career, he 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 inter-county journey in a year when Roscommon reclaimed the Connacht senior title is a fitting way to bring the curtain down on a distinguished 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," the chairperson said.