Eight-time All-Ireland winner Dean Rock retires from inter-county football 

CALLING IT A DAY: Dean Rock of Dublin with his fiancé Niamh McEvoy and their daughter Sadie. Pic: David Fitzgerald, Sportsfile

Dublin’s eight-time All-Ireland SFC winner Dean Rock has announced his inter-county retirement.

The Ballymun Kickhams man released a statement this morning confirming last July’s All-Ireland final win over Kerry was his last for the county.

Three-time All-Star Rock, who turns 34 next month, had indicated a number of months ago that he might not play for the Blues in 2024. He started in all of Dublin’s six consecutive All-Ireland final triumphs between 2015 and ’20.

Son of fellow Dublin legend Barney, Rock famously kicked the winning free in the 2017 All-Ireland final win over Mayo. He also scored one of the quickest-ever All-Ireland final goals in the 2020 win over Mayo.

“The time has come for me to hang up the blue jersey and end my playing career with the Dublin senior football team,” his statement read. “I now step aside fulfilled, knowing that I made the most of the opportunity that was given to me.

“What started as a young boy’s dream in the back garden to eventually living my dream of representing Dublin is something I take immense pride from.

“The last 16 years playing for Dublin would not have been possible without the care and support of so many.” 

Rock thanked his club, the Dublin supporters, his parents, his wife Niamh who retired in 2022 after winning five All-Ireland ladies senior football medals, managers, coaches and backroom staff.

He concluded: “To Dessie (Farrell), James (McCarthy) and all the lads, the very best of luck for the season ahead. With every ending there is a new beginning. I look forward to seeing what that will bring.”