Mullan steps down from Ireland captaincy

Katie Mullan has stepped down from her captain's role with Ireland but will continue to make herself available for the national team.

Mullan, 30, was appointed Ireland captain in 2016 and skippered her country to a surprise place in the World Cup final two years later.

The Coleraine native's leadership also played a huge role in the Ireland women team's first ever qualification for an Olympic Games when they secured a place at Tokyo 2020.

Mullan described captaining her country as the "greatest privilege and honour of my life".

"For eight unforgettable years, I've always focused on what's best for the team and this decision is no different," said Mullan.

"I believe the time is right for me to pass on the armband. I'm not ready to retire from playing as I feel I still have much more to give to the Irish shirt. It's an exciting time ahead."

Revealing the news, Hockey Ireland said Mullan has "been instrumental in raising the profile of Irish hockey on the international stage".

"Her legacy is likely to endure as both a captain who brought her team to unprecedented heights and a role model who continues to inspire young athletes across Ireland," added Hockey Ireland.

The Hockey Ireland statement said that Mullan is renowned for her "tenacity, agility, and ability to rally her team".

Mullan began her sporting career by playing camogie and gaelic football before translating her talent into hockey.

After playing club hockey for Ballymoney, Mullan moved to UCD in Dublin before making her international debut in 2012.

“I am incredibly passionate about the future of hockey in Ireland and the legacy we can build," continued Mullan.

"In 2018 we witnessed the potential for the sport but we are still some distance off realising it. In my next chapter I will endeavour to continue helping drive the sport to new heights.”