Kildare's Daniel Flynn announces retirement from inter-county football
Kenneth Fox
Kildare’s Daniel Flynn has retired from inter-county football, it was confirmed on Thursday.
The Johnstownbridge man steps away at the age of 31, having made his debut for the Lilywhites 13 years ago and contributing to the county’s annexing of a Tailteann Cup and promotion from Division 3 this season.
A three-time All-Star nominee, Flynn joined AFL outfit Port Adelaide in 2014 before returning to line out for his county the following season where he made a name for himself as an exciting inside forward.
In late 2018, after claiming the second of his successive All-Star nominations, he chose to step away for a season, citing disillusionment with the game before returning when Jack O’Connor was appointed manager.
In an interview with the Irish Examiner, he admitted he had fallen out of love with the game. “I love playing and I enjoy training, but as somebody said to me is the juice worth the squeeze?
“You’re putting all this effort in from December onwards, the slog over Christmas, and you’re missing out on family things and times with your friends all for a couple of really good times in the summer. I just want to play football with the club and enjoy myself for a while.”
In a tribute to Flynn on their official website, the county board outlined his achievements. “On behalf of Kildare GAA, we wish to sincerely thank Daniel Flynn for his outstanding service to Kildare GAA following his decision to step down from Inter County Football,” read the statement.
“Daniel has been an integral part of the Kildare panel since 2012. He has been one of Kildare’s star players for over a decade. It is fair to say that Daniel has been extremely popular with supporters and his fellow players.
“He has had a distinguished career in the Lilywhite Jersey, making his debut in 2013 and winning an U21 Leinster Championship in the same year and the Tailteann Cup in 2025. He was nominated for GAA All-Star awards in 2017, 2018, and 2021.
“Daniel has always been known for his ability to produce a piece of magic that could light up any game. Who can ever forget that incredible goal he scored against Dublin in Croke Park in the Leinster Final in 2019!
"He will be greatly missed on the pitch by all those who support and follow Kildare GAA. One of life’s true gentlemen!”
