Clonkill's Kevin O'Brien, who was part of the Ireland management for the Shinty International in 2024, is expected to be unveiled as the new Westmeath senior hurling manager.

O'Brien in line to take hurling position

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Published: Mon 11 Aug 2025, 4:34 PM

Clonkill's Kevin O’Brien is poised to take the reins as Westmeath’s new senior hurling manager, succeeding Seoirse Bulfin, who stepped down in June after just one season.

The former Lake County U20 boss, who guided his native Clonkill to back-to-back county SHC titles in 2018 and 2019, emerged from a shortlist that included Ringtown's Adrian Moran and former Sligo hurling boss Stephen Shiel. Offaly’s 2024 All-Ireland U20-winning manager Leo O’Connor was also seriously considered.

O'Brien's bid to become Westmeath senior boss fell short last year, but he has built up considerable experience during his coaching career and will be seen as a popular appointment, someone who can unite the hurling community in Westmeath after a challenging year. It is understood a leading hurling coach will be part of the new management team.

The positive development in hurling comes as uncertainty mounts over Dermot McCabe’s future as Westmeath senior football boss.