Sligo stalwart Neil Ewing has announced his retirement from inter-county football at the age of 33.

The Drumcliffe-Rosses Point clubman made his senior debut for the county as a 19-year-old in 2008.

A long-serving player for Sligo, Ewing lined out in three Connacht SFC finals but success proved elusive as they lost to Roscommon in 2010 and Mayo on two occasions (2012 and 2015).

In a statement posted on Twitter, Ewing says injury influenced his decision to retire and reveals he has one regret about his career.

“Dodged injury for a long time but luck couldn’t last forever. At the minute the body is not willing to do what the heads is telling it. It was a childhood dream to pull on the Sligo jersey. An honour to have enjoyed the opportunity to do so,” he wrote.

“From 2008 it has been a privilege beyond words to get to play alongside some who were heroes growing up, some who will be future stars and some whose monumental, unseen, commitment to train/travel/prepare didn’t get them a regular run in the 1-15 jersey.

“Hugely disappointed to not have a Connacht Championship medal. Will forever regret a free I gave away in 2010. Did everything I could, in my limited capabilities. to make up for that moment. In the absence of achieving ambitions I have to take solace in the great experiences shared, friends made and support received along the way.

He continued: “Sligo can compete. With the right structures in place at every stepping stone. Looking forward to watching the current group do everything in their power to make sure that happens and the kids, players, supporters and older people across our great county get to enjoy plenty of great days out together.”

“Thanks to Siobhan for the career, travel and social sacrifices she has made to facilitate chasing my dream. Thanks to my mum for being the best possible example of self-sacrifice for the good of others. Thanks to all the gaels at Rathcormac NS, Summerhill College and NUIG for fostering a love of the game.

“Particular thanks to the great people, past and present, at Drumcliffe/Rosses Point.”

Grateful to have had the opportunity to fulfil a childhood dream. Time for the terrace. pic.twitter.com/jbATeJIfzy

— Neil Ewing (@Bob__Ewing) May 10, 2021

 

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