Kingston steps down as Cork hurling boss

July 03, 2022

Cork hurling manager Kieran Kingston ©INPHO/Ken Sutton

Cork senior hurling manager Kieran Kingston has confirmed this evening that he will not be seeking another term in charge of the team.

Kingston’s term came to an end following the Rebels’ All-Ireland SHC quarter-final loss to Galway two weeks ago and it was reported last week that the Tracton clubman had been offered another season in charge.

However, a statement from Cork GAA has confirmed his departure leaving the Leesiders in search of a new manager for the 2023 season.

Having previously served as selector and coach with his native county under Jimmy Barry-Murphy, Kingston was appointed Cork boss in 2016, serving for two seasons, before departing the team and then returning to the helm again in 2020.

The full statement from Cork GAA this evening reads as follows: 

"Cork GAA officers have been informed by Cork Senior Hurling manager Kieran Kingston that he will not be seeking a further term in the role.

"All in Cork GAA wish to sincerely acknowledge Kieran’s years of dedication across a whole range of positions, including the roles of player, selector, coach and of course, manager.

"Having initially served as selector (2012-2013) and coach (2014) under Jimmy Barry-Murphy, Kieran was appointed manager for the 2016 and 2017 seasons, before returning in the same role for three further years, from 2020 to 2022.

"Over that time, he has been present on the line, as selector and manager in 2013 and 2021, respectively, for Cork’s only two All Ireland Senior Final appearances of the last sixteen years. He also coached and managed the team to Munster success in 2014 and 2017, respectively.

"The incredible contribution of Kieran’s backroom team over the past three years is also acknowledged and while the success that all deserved may not have followed, they can hold their heads high, knowing that they served their County well.

Chairman of Cork GAA, Marc Sheehan said, “Kieran’s commitment to his duties as Cork Senior Hurling manager knew no bounds and the time devoted in a voluntary capacity was immeasurable. He carried the role in a dignified manner at all times, fully understanding of the importance of his position. We wish him well in his future endeavours and have no doubt that he will continue to make a significant contribution to Cork Hurling long into the future.”

Cork GAA CEO, Kevin O’Donovan said, “Looking across the past decade, one has to recognise the indelible mark that Kieran has left on our Senior Hurling team, overseeing what has been a difficult transition at times, with the introduction of a whole wave of young and exciting talent. Indeed, there is no doubt that, given the number of players who made their debuts under Kieran, he departs safe in the knowledge that he has left Cork Hurling in a healthy state. We thank his family, particularly his wife Ellen, for their support also.”

Cork County Executive are now set to immediately commence the appointment process for the position of the county's next senior hurling manager.


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