Shane O’Brien steps down as Westmeath senior hurling manager

Westmeath GAA has confirmed that Shane O’Brien has resigned as the Lake County’s senior hurling manager.

The Dubliner’s departure was announced by the county committee on social media tonight.

O’Brien’s resignation comes despite Westmeath playing two years at the pinnacle of the Allianz National Hurling League for the last two years, and tasting long-awaited victory in the Joe McDonagh Cup last month.

In a statement tonight, O’Brien thanked the incredible group of players he worked with over the last three years, and spoke of their passion and courage over their last two years with him as manager.

Chairman Frank Mescall, on behalf of Westmeath GAA, thanked O’Brien for his dedication and service during his three-year involvement with the team, one as coach and two as manager.

He acknowledged the great work done by O’Brien and noted that he had brought a level of professionalism to the county’s senior hurling team. The chairman and his Westmeath management committee wish the departing manager and his backroom team all the best in the future.

In a statement tonight, O’Brien said: “I would like to thank the incredible group of players that I was so blessed to have worked with over the last three years.

“It was a journey that had to much excitement and fulfilling memories in challenging and unprecedented times. I am fully aware of how fortunate I was to have worked with such a fantastic team.

“The players have shown immense courage and passion in Division One over the last two years, which ultimately lead to Westmeath winning the much sought after Joe McDonagh Cup.

“I would like to thank the management and backroom team for their unwavering support and commitment and the clubs, supporters, Club Iarmhí and Westmeath County Board.

“Westmeath hurling is in a very strong position and I look forward to seeing their continued development in the coming years.”