Diarmuid Connolly announces inter-county retirement to bring brilliant Dublin career to a close

DIARMUID CONNOLLY HAS tonight announced his decision to bring the curtain down on a hugely successful career in Dublin colours.

In a statement released by Dublin GAA, the news of Connolly’s departure was revealed. A six-time All-Ireland senior winner with Dublin, the St Vincent’s club man was one of the most gifted and naturally talented players in the game.

The 33-year-old stated that he departs the Dublin camp with ‘cherished memories for life’.

“I have been fortunate enough to play with an incredible group of players and I have cherished memories for life.

“Throughout my journey with Dublin, I was lucky to have shared it with an exceptional collection of friends who displayed unwavering support and loyalty to me during my time.”

Diarmuid Connolly has this evening announced his retirement from inter-county football.

Thanks for everything, @dermoc123 💙 pic.twitter.com/9ocvRXh6zw

— Dublin GAA (@DubGAAOfficial) September 30, 2020

Connolly was part of Dublin’s Sam Maguire breakthrough in 2011 when they ended a 16-year wait for All-Ireland glory and was involved in the run of subsequent triumphs apart from the 2018 championship which he missed as he spent the summer in Boston.

His prominence in the Dublin starting side lessened in recent years but there were still flashes of his attacking genius. He won All-Star awards in 2014 and 2016 as recognition of his individual displays.

Last spring he had been involved in Dublin’s league squads as the Dessie Farrell reign began but had not seen gametime before the action was shut down in mid-March. More recently Connolly had been in action for St Vincent’s in the club championship in the capital.

Diarmuid Connolly celebrates Dublin's All-Ireland win over Kerry in 2011. Donall Farmer / INPHO Donall Farmer / INPHO / INPHO

Connolly’s statement in full read:

“I have come to the decision to retire from representing Dublin GAA at inter county level.

I have been fortunate enough to play with an incredible group of players and I have cherished memories for life.

Throughout my journey with Dublin, I was lucky to have shared it with an exceptional collection of friends who displayed unwavering support and loyalty to me during my time.

I would like to thank my club, St Vincent’s GAA and the Dublin County Board for giving me the opportunity to represent Dublin from underage to senior level.

There was always a strong relationship between the county board, the teams and players and this had a notable influence on how we performed.

To all the Dublin senior management, support and medical teams that coached, treated and helped me throughout my fantastic journey -THANK YOU .

To my parents, my family and my friends – thank you for supporting me and always believing in me. You gave me strength along my journey.

Finally, I would like to express my eternal appreciation to the incredibly loyal, passionate and devoted Dublin supporters, who were always there for us, no matter the score. You will always hold a special place in my heart.

Thanks for the memories.

Diarmuid”