JULIE-ANN RUSSELL has announced her retirement from football – insisting she will “forever cherish the memories”.
The 33-year-old won 66 caps for the Republic of Ireland after making her debut in 2009, scoring seven goals.
Three of those came in 2024 as the Galway United star made a sensational return to the national fold after four years away.
Russell said: “After 24 incredible years, the time has come to step away from football.
“The game has been a central part of my life, providing unforgettable memories and opportunities that I will never forget.
“There are so many people who have had such a positive influence on my career – family, teammates, coaches, managers, volunteers and fans.
“It would be impossible to name everyone, but please know that I sincerely appreciate everything you’ve done to help me live my dream.
“While it’s bittersweet to say goodbye, I’m excited for the next chapter and will forever cherish the memories football has given me.”
The Moycullen-native enjoyed spells in the United States of America, England, and Australia during her storybook career.
It was Down Under that her four-year hiatus began during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Off the field, she gave birth to her daughter Rosie, who became a fixture of the Irish fold when Russell made her return last year.
What followed was three goals against England, France, and Georgia as she ended her tenure with seven goals in 66 caps.
FAI Chief Football Officer Marc Canham said: “Julie-Ann is a special player who will be remembered for her excellent performances, goals and assists in the SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division and for Ireland, where she will rightly be remembered as one of our finest players.
“We thank her for everything that she has done for Irish football.”
Russell was twice named SSE Airtricity Women‘s Premier Division Player of the Year, in 2014 and 2024, while she was named in the Team of the Season three times.
She won a league title with Peamount United in 2012 and ended her career back at her home club of Galway United.
Paying tribute, Galway head coach Phil Trill said: “We’d like to congratulate Julie-Ann on an absolutely amazing career, she gave us so many highs as a football community in Galway.
“I’m very privileged to have worked with her for the last number of years and can see why she will leave such a legacy.
“We’re very proud, as Galway United, to have her play with us in the club, and also to lift a trophy with us in Tallaght last year. That was very special.
“Then, to see her at Páirc Uí Chaoimh last year, putting on a show, that was just incredible, and it is something we’re very proud of.
“She is a trailblazer for young girls in Ireland, a real role model, a top level professional all the way through, and just a great person.
“We wish her all the best, and we know she won’t be far away.”
