On October 9, 2025, Dublin GAA fans were met with a wave of nostalgia and gratitude as John Small, one of the county’s most decorated footballers, officially announced his retirement from inter-county play. After an illustrious 11-season career, the Ballymun Kickhams stalwart leaves behind a legacy defined by grit, leadership, and a cabinet full of silverware. For many, his departure marks the end of an era in Dublin football—a chapter filled with unprecedented dominance and unforgettable moments.
Small’s journey in the blue jersey is the stuff of legend. Since making his debut for the senior team, he has been at the heart of Dublin’s golden generation, amassing a jaw-dropping seven All-Ireland titles. Perhaps even more impressive, he was a central figure in the squad that delivered six Sam Maguire Cups in a row between 2015 and 2020, a feat that may never be matched in modern Gaelic football. Along the way, Small also collected 10 Leinster Senior Football Championship medals, four Allianz Football League titles, and capped it off with an All-Star award in 2020, cementing his place among the sport’s elite.
In a heartfelt statement, Small reflected on his career with a mix of pride and humility. “Representing the Dublin senior football team has been the greatest privilege of my life. It gave me memories and friendships that I’ll carry with me forever. They truly were the best days of my life,” he shared. He went on to express deep gratitude to those who supported him throughout his journey: “I’ve been so lucky to have incredible people around me throughout this journey – my family, my partner Jade, my son Charlie, my friends, my club, Jim (Gavin) and Dessie (Farrell) along with their coaching teams, my team-mates, and the amazing Dublin supporters who have always stood behind us.”
But for Small, family was always at the core of his success. “Above everyone else, I want to acknowledge my Mam, Andrea, and my late Dad, Declan. They gave me the chance to live my dream and supported me every step of the way. I wouldn’t have achieved any of this without them.”
Small’s retirement wasn’t entirely unexpected, yet it still caught some off guard. Ahead of the 2025 season, rumors swirled that he would join several teammates in stepping away from the inter-county scene. However, in a surprise twist, he rejoined the Dublin panel in April, determined to give it one more go. He featured prominently throughout the Championship, with his final appearance coming in the All-Ireland quarter-final, a tough defeat to Tyrone that ultimately closed the book on his inter-county career.
New Dublin manager Ger Brennan, who himself has shared the field with Small, was quick to pay tribute to the outgoing veteran. “Having played briefly with John and against him multiple times at club level, I know John was a warrior, a leader and a team player to the very end. I wish John every success as he returns fully to his club Ballymun Kickhams and in his future personal and professional endeavours.”
Former head coach Dessie Farrell, who guided Small from the under-13 county side all the way to his final senior game, offered a moving reflection on Small’s character and contributions. “From the outset, John distinguished himself not only as a fierce competitor and a warrior on the field, but as a man of deep humility and heart. He has always given everything for the team, for those beside him, and for the Dublin jersey he wore with such pride. John is loved, admired and respected by me, his teammates, coaches, and supporters alike, and his contribution to Dublin football and his community will be long remembered. He leaves the game as he played it; with courage, character and integrity. Best wishes to John and his family for continued success and good health in the future.”
Fans, too, wasted no time in flooding social media with messages of appreciation and admiration. One supporter summed up the collective sentiment: “Class player & will be badly missed by the Dubs. Will go down as one of the best.” Another added, “Huge Losss thank you john you where outstanding.” The tributes continued to pour in, with one fan writing, “Absolute warrior of a football player and what an amazing football career. It has been a great privilage to watch as a fan from The Hill. Wishing you every success in the future.” Yet another echoed the feelings of many: “What a player, everything you’d want in a centre half back. Congrats on an outstanding career.”
Small’s retirement comes at a time of notable change within the GAA community. Just a day after his announcement, another giant of Gaelic football, referee Joe McQuillan, was also in the news for hanging up his whistle. McQuillan, a four-time All-Ireland senior football final referee from Cavan, confirmed he was stepping away from inter-county officiating at the age of 50. His final act in the middle was the All-Ireland semi-final in July, where Kerry edged out Tyrone at Croke Park. Known affectionately—and sometimes controversially—as “Dublin Joe,” McQuillan addressed the nickname with a hint of humor and perspective, noting, “I was often called ‘Dublin Joe’ but they lost two All-Ireland semi-finals I refereed.”
McQuillan expressed no regrets about his decision to retire and was widely acknowledged for his steady hand and professionalism throughout his career. His departure, much like Small’s, marks the end of an era, not just for Dublin football but for the GAA at large. Both men leave behind legacies that will be talked about for years to come, each having played their part—one on the pitch, the other with whistle in hand—in shaping the modern narrative of Gaelic football.
As the Dublin camp looks toward the 2026 season under Ger Brennan’s stewardship, questions naturally arise about who will step up to fill the void left by Small’s departure. His influence extended far beyond his defensive prowess; he was a leader in the dressing room, a mentor to younger players, and a symbol of the relentless drive that propelled Dublin to the top of the sport. The next generation will have big boots to fill, but if history is any guide, the Dubs will meet the challenge head-on.
For now, John Small’s gaze will return to his beloved Ballymun Kickhams, where he’ll continue to ply his trade at club level. Dublin fans, meanwhile, will remember him as the consummate competitor—tough, humble, and always ready to give his all for the county. As one era closes and another begins, the echoes of Small’s achievements and the cheers of grateful supporters will linger long in the memory. The Dublin faithful can only hope that the spirit he embodied will carry on, inspiring future generations to chase their dreams with the same courage and conviction.
