The Jimmy Nolan Interview

Jimmy Nolan played 241 times for Galway Rovers/United scoring 9 times between 1981 and 1995. The long-serving full-back was always a great fan’s favourite at Terryland and was fondly remembered by the crowd when he took part in a Legends Penalty Shoot-out at half-time in the 2008 FAI Cup Semi-final and in a 2009 St.Patrick’s Day friendly with Celtic Legends, proving that despite his modesty he still has the legs to get up and down the pitch! I tracked Jimmy down recently to find out what he’s up to now:

Are you still actively involved in football?

Yes I am with the u14 District League team, also playing with Knocknacarra jnr side and just recently started to help Colga FC on the coaching side of things.

Do you ever go to Terryland these days?

I go as often as I can, which is most of the time. I have two boys who like to watch as well, so that gives me the extra push to go.

What’s your best memory of your spell there?

The Cup Final win in 91 is the first one that springs to mind and also we qualified for Europe in 85 when we reached the Cup Final. To win the League Cup in 86 was also a highlight as it was the first trophy for the club.

Who were the best players you played with and against?

To play with there were a few: Gerry Daly, Dennis Bonnar ,Chick Deacy,Kevin Cass,John Mannion,Paul McGee and against: Tommy Gaynor(Cork)Johnny Walsh(Limerick)Michael O Connor(Athlone)

How do you compare the game in The League of Ireland with when you played?

It’s now a professionally run league, with training all week, compared to when we played, when we trained twice a week with the game on Sundays. Crowds were good that time though!

How did you get into football and who were your biggest influence?

I started with kicking a ball against the wall and a neighbour (Jimmy Lovett) giving me a bit of coaching. Then when I joined Renmore, Colie Smith and Joe Keating were a big influence on me.

Are you in favour of an All-Ireland League?

No I don’t think it will work.

Why do you think Football doesn’t receive the same support as GAA or Rugby in Galway?

I don’t know why, wish I did and we could try and get them up to Terryland.

How did it feel lining out with your former team-mates against Celtic in the Legends match last year?

It was great to meet up with some of the lads who you don’t see to often and it was also great to play against players of such a high standard as the Celtic players. They may be getting on in years but they can still pass the ball around.

Is Galway big enough for three teams in the League of Ireland?

No I don’t think so and that is proven by the attendances at the games.

Thanks Jimmy.

Mike Geraghty, mgwords.com.