Stephen O’Brien and Adrian Spillane Announce their Retirements
Stephen O’ Brien:
Stephen O’Brien’s retirement marks the conclusion of an outstanding career in the green and gold jersey for the proud Kenmare Shamrocks clubman. Since making his championship debut in 2014, Stephen has been one of the most dynamic and hard-working forwards in modern Kerry football. His blistering pace, relentless work rate, and ability to deliver when it mattered most made him an invaluable asset to both his Club and County over the years.
From his early days through to his last appearance, Stephen epitomized determination and loyalty. His trademark – driving forward, scoring vital points, and tracking back to defend embodied the selfless spirit of the Kerry tradition. Over the course of his career, Stephen won 2 All-Ireland medals and has played on over 100 occasions across League and Championship campaigns for the Kingdom, making countless contributions to many memorable days in Croke Park.
Stephen is a gentleman on and off the field, and his contribution to Kerry football, both in his achievements and his character, cannot be overstated. His departure leaves a lasting legacy that will be remembered by all who followed his remarkable journey.
We wish Stephen, his wife Tara and his young son Nolan, all of the very best in their future endeavours.
Adrian Spillane:
Adrian Spillane’s retirement today marks the end of a remarkable career in the green and gold for the proud Templenoe club man. Since making his championship debut in 2019, Adrian has been a force to be reckoned with, bringing energy, commitment, and passion to every game he played. From his first appearance to his final bow, he embodied the spirit and drive that is synonymous with Kerry football.
Adrian followed in the footsteps of his father and uncles and the Spillane legacy, making his own name with his relentless work rate and unwavering dedication to the team. His tenacity on the pitch and leadership in key moments made him a standout player, always willing to go above and beyond for his county. Over the course of his career, Adrian won an All-Ireland medal in 2022 and contributed to numerous Munster Championship victories, playing 24 Championship games and 32 League games for the Kingdom.
Adrian Spillane’s contribution to Kerry GAA cannot be measured in statistics alone. He was a true warrior for the jersey, always giving everything for his teammates and the supporters. A gentleman on and off the field, Adrian leaves behind a legacy of hard work, humility, and pride in representing his county. He will be spoken about with admiration by all those who had the privilege of watching him play. We wish Adrian all the very best in his future endeavours.
“On behalf of Kerry GAA and the entire Kerry community, I want to extend my heartfelt congratulations and deepest gratitude to Stephen O’Brien and Adrian Spillane as they announce their retirement from inter-county football.
Stephen and Adrian have given so much to the green and gold over the years, embodying the spirit, dedication, and skill that Kerry football is renowned for. They have been exemplary ambassadors for our county, displaying unwavering commitment both on and off the field.
Both of you have made sacrifices—personal, physical, and professional—to represent Kerry at the highest level. It takes immense dedication to balance the demands of inter-county football, and you both have done so with great dignity and resilience. Kerry football is richer for having had you among our ranks.
I also wish to acknowledge the support of your families, friends, and communities who have stood by your side throughout your careers. Without their backing, the journey would not have been the same.
As you close this chapter of your careers, I know that the next stage will be filled with success in whatever path you choose. You will always be a part of the Kerry GAA family, and we hope to see you continue to inspire future generations of players in whatever role you may take on next.
Go raibh míle maith agaibh, Stephen and Adrian. You leave behind a lasting legacy, and Kerry GAA will forever be grateful”.
Patrick O’Sullivan
Cathaoirleach Coiste Chontae Chiarraí CLG.
“Stephen O’ Brien and Adrian Spillane will be fondly remembered by the Kerry supporters. They were great team players who always worked hard and they were greatly admired and respected by their teammates.
Both contributed massively to Kerry winning the All Ireland in 2022 . They will be sadly missed for their leadership within the playing group.
I wish them both the very best in their retirement”.
Jack O’ Connor
Kerry GAA Bainisteoir
