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The Irish Sun

Munster star ‘lived the dream' as he announces retirement in emotional statement after decision ‘taken away from me'

DAVE KILCOYNE has announced his retirement from rugby - admitting the final decision "was taken away from me". Kilcoyne played 220 times for Advertisement 1 Dave Kilcoyne has retired Credit: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile At international level, he won 56 caps for Rugby World Cups. The latter part of his career was plagued with injuries and, announcing his retirement, the 36-year-old put a positive spin on the decision being out of his hands. Kilcoyne said; 'Growing up living in Limerick , my dream was always to play for Munster and Ireland. "To have done so for so long has been a dream come true. Advertisement Read More on Munster Rugby 'The last two years haven't gone as planned with surgeries to my shoulder and Achilles. "In a way, it's easier that the decision to play on has been taken away from me. 'I take great pride in knowing that I always gave everything I had and left nothing on the pitch. "It's almost a fitting way for me to finish up. Advertisement Most read in Rugby Union 'I want to thank all the coaches that have influenced my career right the way up from UL Bohemians, Ardscoil Rís, Munster and Ireland. 'I want to thank my family who have been a constant support throughout my career. Ronan O'Gara bizarrely ends press conference after 23 SECONDS amid La Rochelle's continued poor form "I certainly wouldn't have had the career I had if it wasn't for their unwavering support over the years. 'I want to thank all my team-mates that I shared the battlefield with over the years, a lot of whom are my best friends today. Advertisement 'To the red army of Munster supporters that have cheered and supported me and my career since 2011, thank you – I look forward to joining you in the stands! 'I'd also like to thank the University of Limerick (and my mother) for encouraging me and accommodating my education over the years. "After my degree in Business Studies, I was able to complete an MSc in Business Project Managment in 2019. 'I am just about to finish a Professional Diploma in Aircraft Leasing and Finance and hope to graduate in the summer . Advertisement "This wouldn't have been possible without the help and understanding of the lecturers and University. 'I'm extremely excited for what the next chapter brings and using all the skills and life lessons that my rugby career has given me.'