Just days after announcing his retirement from inter-county football, Alan Dillon plans open a very different chapter in his life. Though, it is not one untrodden by GAA players in the past.
The 35-year-old told The Mayo News that he wants to start a career in politics. Fine Gael is his party of choice. Dillon says that if members were open to the prospect he would be interested in running in the next general election. Given recent events in Irish politics, that could be just months away.
"I feel I would have dynamic qualities, would bring youth and freshness to the role and I have a real passion for Mayo, its people and the issues on the ground here," Dillon said. "My wife Ashling has her own business in Castlebar and would be very up to speed with the issues relating to business in the town."
Dillon's family has an extensive history with Fine Gael. He says his uncle Ollie Dillon is "heavily involved" with the local branch of Fine Gael and his aunt Kathleen Coady was secretary to Enda Kenny.
There's a lot to consider. I'm speaking to my wife and my family about it. Getting involved in politics was something I always was keen to do and I honestly felt it would be starting at a more local level but if it was to be for a General Election, that is something I would have to give a lot of thought to.
Andy Moran, Dillon's former Mayo team and this season's Player of the Year, recently ruled himself out of a run a Leinster House after being mooted as a possible candidate.
