Rory Kavanagh announces inter-county retirement

First member of Donegal’s 2012 All-Ireland winning side to call it a day

2012 All-Ireland winning midfielder Rory Kavanagh has announced his Donegal retirement. (Photograph: INPHO/Cathal Noonan)
2012 All-Ireland winning midfielder Rory Kavanagh has announced his Donegal retirement. (Photograph: INPHO/Cathal Noonan)

Donegal's All-Ireland winning midfielder Rory Kavanagh has announced he is to retire from inter-county football after a 14-year association with the county.

The 32-year-old was a member of Jim McGuinness’ 2012 All-Ireland winning side and is the first member of that successful panel to retire.

Kavanagh, who made 132 appearances for his county, revealed his decision to the Donegal Democrat on Wednesday, saying his retirement was "the hardest decision" he has ever had to make.

Kavanagh also played for club side St. Eunan’s and won three Ulster titles and a national league title alongside his All-Ireland medal, with his last Donegal appearance coming in last year’s final defeat to Kerry.

Patrick Madden

Patrick Madden

Patrick Madden is a former sports journalist with The Irish Times