3 time All-Ireland winner Lambert retires from inter-county football

By Shane Brophy

Tipperary’s most decorated ladies footballer Samantha Lambert has announced her retirement from the inter-county game.

She may be retiring at the relatively young age of 29 but the Ardfinnan club woman has been playing senior inter-county football since she was sixteen years of age, coming on as a substitute in the 2008 All-Ireland Intermediate final victory over Clare, the first of her three All-Ireland titles.

From there she developed into a teak tough defender, but also a leader, and has captained Tipperary through their recent golden spell which yielded two more Intermediate All-Ireland’s in 2017 and 2019, as well as National League division 3 and 2 titles respectively in 2017 and 2018.

Lar Roche, chairperson of Tipperary Ladies Football, paid tribute to ‘Sam’ as she was known to her teammates for her outstanding commitment to Tipperary Ladies Football. “Samantha has been a fantastic captain, player and role model for Tipperary and I hope that she won’t go too far away from Tipperary Ladies Football.

“I would just like to say thank you very, very much for all you have done and given to Tipperary Ladies Football.”

Lar Roche also complimented the role Samantha played in the selection committee that interviewed the candidate for senior manager role, now filled by Declan Carr.

Tributes to Lambert were glowing from many of her teammates, including Aisling McCarthy. “Thank you Samantha Lambert for being an inspirational leader. Great to share such fond memories on and off the pitch. 3 All-Ireland’s with Tipperary, 2 as captain climbing the steps of the Hogan, not a bad track record. Enjoy retirement, you’ll be missed.

The long serving Maria Curley also said: “It’s a sad day for Tipperary Ladies Football. What a career for Samantha Lambert, an inspirational teammate and an even better friend. We will forever try to fill your boots.”