Mayo professional footballer hangs up his boots

Former Sligo Rovers midfielder David Cawley has announced his retirement from professional football in a post on social media this afternoon.

The Ballina native came through the ranks at Ipswich Town before returning to the west of Ireland and ultimately becoming captain of the Bit O’Red.

He played over a hundred games for the club between 2012-2015 before signing for Inchicore side, St. Patrick’s Athletic.

Cawley also lined out for Galway United before returning to the Showgrounds, cementing his status as a fan favourite.

His final stint in the game came at Finn Harps where he made 40 appearances for the Ballybofey based club.

Speculation will now be rife regarding Cawley’s intentions for next seasons Mayo Football League and whether he will don the colours of Ballina Town in the 2026 campaign.