Irwin announces Irish retirement

Mark Irwin has decided to step down from international duty

Ireland forward Mark Irwin has retired from international hockey after scoring 36 goals in 130 appearances.

The 31-year-old Instonians player, who made his debut in 1996, cites Ireland's failure to make the Olympic Games as the reason for his decision.

"It has always been my dream to play in the Olympic Games and I was bitterly disappointed to miss out," he said.

"Given the break in the international calendar I believe it's the right time to call an end to my Irish career."

Paddy Brown, Jason Black and Andy Barbour have also quit the international scene recently.

Irwin added: "There is a wealth of young talent coming through the system and it is essential that they are given the opportunity to experience hockey at the highest level while they have the time and energy to put that experience to good use. 

"It has been an enormous pleasure and privilege to represent my country but the highlight for me personally was being given the captain's armband during the summer of 2006 - leading your country is an honour that very few people in any sport achieve and I will treasure the memory for the rest of my life."