Rob Hennelly has called time on his lengthy career as a Mayo goalkeeper after playing for 14 seasons. He made his Mayo senior debut in 2011 and now departs having won seven Connacht SFC medals and two Allianz League titles as well as being twice nominated for an All-Star.
“I am privileged to have been involved with the Mayo senior team since 2009 and to have played at the highest level for as long as I have.
“However, now feels like the right time for me to retire from inter-county football. I tried to give it a go again this year, but life moves fast as they say – and I’m grateful to be leaving on my own terms and with so much to look forward to in 2025 and beyond.
“Firstly, I want to say a huge thank you to Breaffy GAA for supporting me throughout my development and standing by me every part of the journey, including my decision to step away last year.
“On that note, I also want to express my sincere gratitude to Raheny GAA for taking me in and making me feel so at home.
“To Mayo GAA and the Mayo supporters, thank you for everything. We’ve shared many highs and lows, and while I’d be lying if I said I have no regrets, I’m proud that we never gave up chasing the dream.
“I’m also grateful for each management and coaching team I got to play under and, in particular, want to remember John O’Mahony who gave me my first taste of senior football. May he rest in peace.
“Thank you to every teammate I’ve had the privilege of togging out with over the past 16 seasons. It’s been an honour to play alongside you all and, more importantly, to get to know you as people.
“I want to give a special mention to Aidan (O’Shea) – we started a journey together with both club and county and, unfortunately, we won’t finish it together, but you’ve always been an inspiration to me and so many others. I’m so glad you’re there to continue to lead this team and battle on.
“To the current Mayo team, while I’m sad to leave, I’m so excited to see where you go this year. I know the characters, culture and environment in this group will drive Mayo football to where it belongs.
“I also want to acknowledge every goalkeeper I’ve had the good fortune of playing with and against at county level. I have huge respect for anyone who takes on this role, whether as first, second, or third choice, and I’m grateful for everything I’ve learned from playing with and against some of the best goalkeepers of all time.
“Finally, and most importantly, I want to thank my incredible family – my wife Orla, my parents, my brother and sisters, extended family, and in-laws. Your love and support carried me through the tough days but having you there to share the good ones are memories I’ll cherish forever.”
