A Geelong Under-19s player, Bolton was recruited to Woodville by coach Rodney Olsson and he performed well in his three years at the club. Bolton, who played as a wingman, joined Geelong in 1984 and made his debut in the opening game of the season.
Sydney acquired his services in 1986, the same year he represented Australia in the International Rules series against the touring Irish team. He was a member of the Sydney squad which placed second in the 1986 home and away season, only to fall away in the finals. Bolton participated in another rare finals series for the club in 1987. During his career he represented South Australia, New South Wales and Victoria at interstate football.
