A member of the Tigers' legendary "Three Musketeers" backline of Bolger, Sheahan and O'Neill, he played in the 1929 Seconds premiership side as well as in four straight senior Grand Finals from 1931 to 1934, winning the premiership in 1932 and 1934.
Bolger was awarded Life Membership in 1939.
Later serving as a committeeman and vice president of the club, his service to the Richmond Football Club exceeded 50 years.