Sligo footballer Neil Ewing has announced his retirement after 13 years of service with his county.
Ewing was a captain and vice-captain of his county but, at 33, feels his race is run at inter-county level and he admits that it is "time for the terrace".
The Drumcliffe/Rosses Point clubman was a defender for most of his Yeats County career, but was given a roaming role under Niall Carew when he took charge four years ago.
The closest he came to a winner's medal in Connacht was in 2010, when Sligo beat Mayo and Galway but lost to Roscommon by a point in the provincial final.
A vocal opponent of a two-tiered championship, he was a graduate of The Jim Madden GPA Leadership Programme.
He announced his inter-county retirement on social media today.
"Dodged injury for a long time but luck couldn't last forever," Ewing tweeted. "At the minute the body is willing to do what the head is telling it.
"It was a childhood dream to pull on the Sligo jersey. An honour to have enjoyed the opportunity to do so.
"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 a 1-15 jersey.
"Hugely disappointing 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."
Ewing added: "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 country 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 geals 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. Peace be the journey!".
