Cottrell first played hurling at juvenile and underage levels with the Toomevara club, winning numerous divisional championship titles before claiming both Tipperary MAHC and U21HC titles in 1986.
He quickly progressed to adult level and won three successive Tipperary SHC medals from 1992 to 1994.
[2][3] Nolan first appeared on the inter-county scene for Tipperary as a member of the minor team during their unsuccessful 1986 season.
After a period away from the team he was recalled and claimed a National Hurling League Division 1 title in 1994.
Nolan made his sole Munster SHC appearance that season.