Gerard Monan, Down senior hurling manager, is to step down from the hotseat.
Speaking at the weekend, he said: “I have informed the officers of Down GAA County Board of my decision to step down as Manager of the County Senior Hurling team.
“It has been a pleasure and a privilege to hold this position since my appointment in 2009. The highlights for me were working with such talented players within the County and winning the Christy Ring Cup in 2013 to bring only the second All-Ireland Hurling title to Down.
“I had hoped that we could have gone on to build on this achievement but circumstances dictated that this did not happen. To manage or play for your County is the biggest honour one can achieve and going forward I encourage all aspiring Down hurlers to seize the moment and have pride in representing your County.
“I want to thank all those who played in the Down jersey over the last five seasons and those great people who were part of the management and backroom teams. They made my job much easier and all the more worthwhile.
“I also want to thank the County Board who gave me the honour of managing my County and were always helpful in ensuring that the facilities and resources were in place.
“Finally, I wish to thank my family; my wife Elaine and my children who have supported and encouraged me at all times ensuring that I could always give my full commitment to this role.”
Seamus Walsh, Down County Board Chairman, said: ” On behalf of Down County Board I would like to place on record my own and the Boards thanks to Gerard for all of his efforts as Down Senior Hurling Team Manager over the past five years. The highlight for us all was the Christy Ring Cup win in 2013 and was a just reward for the efforts of Gerard and his management team.
“At all times Gerard was an excellent representative for Down and a man who we were very proud to have as our manager. We wish Gerard and his family every success in the future.”
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