Connolly most recently played professionally for Irish provincial side Connacht in the Pro14, after coming through the province's academy.
A graduate of Newbridge College, he started playing rugby with his local club Naas RFC at under-7 level.
[1] After finishing secondary education, Connolly attended IT Carlow while he was part of the Connacht Rugby under-age set up.
[1] Born in Leinster, Connolly was a part of the youth set up at neighboring province Connacht for much of his development.
[6][10] Connolly moved to England to join RFU Championship side Nottingham ahead of the 2019–20 season.