Ellen Keane is back home in Ireland after calling time on an incredible Paralympics career that dates back to Beijing in 2008, when she was just 13.
She was one of Ireland's two flagbearers in the closing ceremony in Paris last weekend, and speaking to media this week, she was reflecting on her 2024 Paralympics experience, while looking forward to what comes next.
One element of the Paris games that left her 'disappointed' was how the official TikTok account for the Paralympics celebrated the athletes. For the last year or two, the account has chosen to take an 'edgy and unique' approach to celebrating Paralympians, and while some athletes appreciate the humour, the Clontarf swimmer is not one of them.
The TikTok account is disappointing if I'm honest and it's just a bit like, 'We're going to do anything possible to go viral.'
I think maybe asking the athletes' permission before doing it would have been nice. I wasn't asked permission for a video of me to be made, my video wasn't even that bad, but I can only assume how other athletes may be feeling.
If we choose to take humour in our disability that is our choice, not a choice someone should be making for us.
@paralympicsLEFT…LEFT…LEFT…
Keane has also spoken out against the racist abuse directed at her fellow athlete, Deaton Registe, during the 2024 Paralympics in Paris. Registe , a 20-year-old swimmer from Dungannon, County Tyrone, faced unacceptable online abuse ahead of his 100m breaststroke final, where he finished sixth in his debut for Ireland.
Keane condemned the abuse and praised Registe, calling him "the sweetest and most adorable person I have ever met" and highlighting his pride in representing Ireland.
Paralympics Ireland also strongly denounced the behaviour, with CEO Stephen McNamara emphasising the nation's overwhelming support for all athletes. Despite the negativity, Deaton’s experience remained positive, buoyed by the support of the Irish public and fellow athletes.
As Keane begins her new chapter in life, she reflects on her personal growth and her decision to retire. Winning her first medal in 2016 was a defining moment for her. Keane knew that the 2024 Paris Paralympics would mark the end of her competitive journey. Though she is not sure what comes next, Keane is at peace with her decision to retire and has no regrets. While the future feels uncertain, she's open to discovering what lies ahead. She has said that she is happy with her decision to retire stating:
I am completely content with what I have done
When asked about her decision to retire, Keane describes it as an easy choice. She's excited to explore new opportunities and leverage skills that she has picked up over the years. Keane is eager to keep doing something that she loves and take time off to reflect on what truly makes her happy while exploring her next dream.
Fantastic to see OMK Ellen Keane (2010-2012) as flag bearer for Ireland at the closing ceremony of the Paralympics!#mountkellyalum #itstheclimb pic.twitter.com/5cGa9muAqy
— Old Mount Kelleians (@MountKellyAlum) September 10, 2024
Keane approach to retirement is unique. She believes that retiring from sport doesn't mean retiring from high performance. She is committed to staying focused and motivated, even outside of competitive swimming. Keane notes that dealing with pressure has been one of the most challenging aspects of her career, but she's found solace in supporting her fellow athletes.
Retiring from sports doesn't mean retiring from high performance
Pictured is five-time Paralympian and Allianz ambassador Ellen Keane on her return from Paris. Keane, pictured here in her hometown of Clontarf, competed in the SB8 100m breaststroke and S9 100m backstroke falling just short of a Paralympic medal. This marks Keane’s final Paralympics as she looks forward to retirement.
Allianz have been proud to support Ellen on her Paralympic journey since 2017 and are the only Irish brand to support the Olympics and Paralympics at both a global and local level.
Mandatory Credit ©INPHO/Dan Sheridan
