The Crossmaglen star has decided to hang up his boots after a sterling career of service to the Orchard County.
Kernan released a statement announcing his decision through the Gaelic Players’ Association today, citing the need to “focus energies on other aspects of my life” as the reason behind his decision.
One of the classiest wing-backs of the modern era, Kernan broke onto the senior inter-county scene in 2005 when his father Joe was still in charge of Armagh, having won an All-Ireland under-21 title with the Orchard County in 2004.
Kernan was named Young Footballer of the Year in 2005 and was part of an Ulster title-winning Armagh side that year, as he was again in 2006 and 2008. Kernan has also played a major role in the ridiculous run of success Crossmaglen Rangers have enjoyed at club level in the modern era and he has stated his intention to continue playing club football for the foreseeable future.
Kernan’s decision will come as a surprise to many as he looked in pretty decent nick when lining out for Armagh last season but we’d like to wish a gentleman of the game and one of the finest wing-backs of his generation all the best in his retirement.
You can read Kernan’s statement in full below:
GPA statement on behalf of Armagh footballer Aaron Kernan
“I have informed the Armagh management and players today that I am retiring from county football. It is obviously a very difficult decision for me but I believe I’ve reached a stage where I need to focus energies on other aspects of my life.
“It was a great privilege for me to play for my county for 10 years and I cherish every step of the journey that began for me following our All-Ireland U21 success back in 2004.
“I am particularly proud to have contributed to my family’s long-standing connections with Armagh football and to have been involved both with my brothers and my father Joe at the top level.
“Having discussed the current situation with my family however, I believe the time is now right to make the transition although I will continue to play for my club Crossmaglen and remain actively involved in the GAA and the GPA.
“I would like to thank everyone who supported me throughout my county career but particularly my wife Marianne and my family. It is impossible to give the necessary commitment to compete at the top level in our game as an amateur without the backing of family and friends; for all that wonderful support I am deeply grateful.
“Thanks also to my club Cross who I was always so proud to represent on the county team.
“I was very fortunate to play alongside and against some outstanding footballers, sportsmen and individuals and will cherish those memories forever.
“Thanks to the loyal Armagh fans who always supported me; to the various management teams and backroom staff who placed their loyalty in me as a player over the years, to our sponsors and county board – thank you.
“Finally, I wish Kieran McGeeney and the Armagh team all the best in the future and I look forward to supporting them from the sidelines next year.”
