Bohs 'devastated' as Hunt retires
Thursday, July 17, 2008
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Bohemian FC captain Kevin Hunt's "legendary status" is assured after the 33-year-old shocked Irish football by announcing his retirement with immediate effect.
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Honours
The Englishman has spent the last eleven seasons with the club, captaining Bohs to Premier Division titles in 2001 and 2003 while maturing into one of the most influential midfield players in the Irish game. The 33-year-old's contract was due to expire in November, but Hunt has confirmed that his midweek appearance in a victory against Bray Wanderers AFC was to be his last. "I have had a good career but it is time to go," he said. "I don't feel like I am the player I once was and I don't want to turn up every week and collect my wages if I can't deliver, so I will finish playing now. I spoke to [manager] Pat Fenlon on Wednesday and I told him that I had decided to call it a day. This is not a rash decision, it is something I have thought about. I think it is the right decision for myself and my family."
Team-mates 'devastated'
Hunt informed his team-mates of his decision today before holding a press conference to confirm the news. Fenlon said: "The players were devastated, they couldn't believe that he is gone. I think it is important to recognise Kevin's contribution to the league. He has been the best midfielder in the league for the last ten years. But there is more to life than football, sometimes we all forget that. I am disappointed because I am losing a quality player, but we have to put it in context." Club president Gerry Cuffe added: "Kevin has stood out in terms of his decency and professionalism. His legendary status at this club is assured and I would like to wish Kevin and his family the very best."