Emma Smyth retires from Irish women’s senior squad

Emma Smyth became the second player from the Irish senior women’s panel to retire in the wake of their World League 3 campaign in Valencia last week, one which ended hopes of qualifying for the 2016 Olympics.

The 30-year-old confirmed her decision yesterday, following Kate Dillon, a Railway Union club mate who she was also in the same years as in school in Loreto Dalkey

It concludes a six-year spell with the national team for Smyth, amassing 140 caps in which the midfielder became known for her mazy runs and a driving force in Ireland’s recent upsurge in form. She picked out her 100th appearance as a highlight, scoring in a victory over South Africa that saw Ireland reach the final of the Champions Challenge.

While she steps away, Smyth believes that the side has every chance to build from their recent push for Olympic qualification, something that was only denied by China in a shoot-out.

“We’ve experienced a lot of highs and lows throughout but I couldn’t have asked for a better group of people to do it with,” she said. “I strongly believe this team will be successful in years to come and I know one day I’ll be cheering them on in the Olympics.”

In addition to the two player departures, Ireland will also face into the future with a new coach with Darren Smith replaced by Graham Shaw in the wake of that tournament in Spain.

On the men’s front, Ireland meet world number one side Australia at 12pm (Irish time) in Antwerp in their World League 3 quarter-final. Victory would all but earn them a place at the 2016 Olympics though the Kookaburras have been the outstanding team in world hockey for the past two years.

Paul Gleghorne is available to play after his yellow card against Belgium last Sunday was downgraded in the wake of a disciplinary hearing.

World League Round 3 quarter-final (Antwerp) – Today: Ireland v Australia, 12pm (Irish time)