Donegal's Ward calls it a day

December 04, 2025

Meath's Donal Keogan and Caolan Ward of Donegal

Donegal defender Caolan Ward has hung up his inter-county boots.

The 33-year-old St Eunan’s clubman made his senior debut in a Dr McKenna Cup game against Fermanagh in 2013, but had to wait until 2017 to establish himself as a regular starter under Rory Gallagher. He was a key part of the side that won back-to-back Ulster SFC titles in 2018 and ’19, and also played in the 2022 Ulster final loss to Derry.

However, a serious hamstring injury in 2024 meant he rarely featured since Jim McGuinnress returned as manager. Indeed, his only appearance this year came against Mayo in the Allianz League.

“What a blast it’s been,” Ward wrote on Instagram.

“Grateful and honoured to be given the opportunity to represent Donegal over the past 10 years. Memories to last a lifetime.”


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