James Dolan in action for Westmeath against Derry.
Westmeath stalwart James Dolan has called time on his inter-county career after 13 years with the Lake men.
Dolan played his final match last Saturday as Westmeath’s hopes of qualifying for the knock-out stages of the All-Ireland SFC evaporated following their 2-7 to 0-9 defeat to Derry.
The Garrycastle defender, who strode forward from his half-back perch to land his customary point against Mickey Harte’s side, has had a long and distinguished career playing across all four divisions of the League.
Dolan, who is a first cousin of manager Dessie, made just under 140 appearances for his county with his trademark runs forward a regular feature of his playing days with Westmeath.
Amazingly, he notched 18 goals during his career with the 2022 Tailteann Cup success and this year’s Division 3 League title, his second Division 3 crown, some of his highlights before exiting the county scene.
Dolan was part of a star-studded Westmeath U-21 side which contested the 2010 Leinster final and his retirement will have Lake supporters hoping that other long-serving players like John Heslin, Kieran Martin and Kevin Maguire remain in the fold for 2025.
