O'Donnell departs Roscommon role
September 07, 2016
Fergal O'Donnell during his reign as Roscommon manager.
©INPHO/Cathal Noonan.
Fergal O'Donnell has stepped down as Roscommon's joint manager after less than a year in charge.
Team selectors David Casey and Stephen Bohan have also vacated their roles with the team, leaving other joint-manager Kevin McStay and selector Liam McHale at the helm.
The departed trio's decision was revealed at last night's county board meeting which was held to review the 2016 season.
O'Donnell and McStay took over the Rossies' reins at the end of the 2015 campaign, after John Evans had finished his three-year term, and steered them to a National League semi-final before losing out in the championship to Galway and Clare, respectively.
A statement from the three men read: "It is with much regret and disappointment that myself, Stephen Bohan and David Casey have decided to resign from our roles as joint manager and selectors with the Roscommon senior football team.
"Having been asked 12 months ago to contribute to making Roscommon a force again over a three-year term, we were wholeheartedly committed to achieving that goal.
"Our decision to depart now is made in the best interests of Roscommon football and with a view to removing the inevitable distraction that would result from a potentially divisive contest for the position of manager between myself and Kevin (McStay).
"Recently, a concerted effort has been made (outside of management and players) to undermine and disparage us and it is especially disappointing and damaging that those involved purport to be concerned about the promotion of GAA within the county.
"We want to thank the backroom team, the County Board, our generous sponsors, our loyal supporters, Club Rossie and most importantly the players for their dedication, sacrifice and commitment to Roscommon's cause.
"Roscommon has a hugely talented group of footballers. Now, as supporters, we share the hope that they will continue to learn, develop and ultimately fulfil their potential. To this end, we wish the team every success in the future.
"Fergal O'Donnell, David Casey, Stephen Bohan."
Tweet
