Offaly GAA have confirmed today that Michael Fennelly will not be in charge of the hurling team next season.
The eight-time All-Ireland champion had been in charge of the Faithful County since 2019 and led them to a Division 2A League and Christy Ring title in 2021.
Last season, after being relegated from Division 1, Offaly narrowly missed out on a place in the Joe McDonagh Cup final through point difference.
1 August 2021; Offaly manager Michael Fennelly during the Christy Ring Cup Final match between Derry and Offaly at Croke Park in Dublin. Photo by Piaras Ó Mídheach/Sportsfile
Offaly GAA Statement
Offaly GAA released a statement earlier today thanking Fennelly and his backroom staff for their efforts over the past three years.
"Offaly GAA wish to sincerely thank Michael Fennelly for his dedication and commitment as manager of the Offaly senior hurling team for the past three years. Together with all the members of his management and backroom staff, Michael always carried out his duties in a professional and courteous manner. Offaly GAA will this week begin the process of appointing a new senior hurling manager for 2023.
"County Board Chairman Michael Duignan said that Michael Fennelly instilled into the Offaly set-up the highest standards which he displayed as one of Kilkenny's greatest ever hurlers. He said Michael did his very best to improve the fortunes of Offaly hurling during a three year period which had many interruptions due to the Covid-19 pandemic and wished him and his family all the best for the future."
Offaly GAA thank Michael Fennelly for his 3 year tenure as our Senior Hurling Manager. pic.twitter.com/V2PhlR3q19
— Official Offaly GAA (@Offaly_GAA) July 26, 2022
There were suggestions from reports from the Faithful County that it was Offaly's decision to seek a new direction. Midlands 103.8 are reporting that Offaly 'opted against reappointing' the Ballyhale man.
Offaly GAA is undoubtedly on the rise and after their Minor Hurling side came so close to All-Ireland glory at the start of the month, there's going to be some fantastic and talented hurlers coming through the ranks ahead of next season.
If the new manager will be able to help these minor stars progress to senior level, Offaly hurling will find themselves in with a great opportunity to return to their past glory.
Fennelly is one of many legendary Kilkenny players inevitably linked to the vacancy at Nowlan Park.
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