Westmeath are seeking a new hurling manager after Seamus Qualter announced his resignation on Monday night. Qualter's decision has shocked hurling fans in the Lake County, who had fully expected him to continue at the helm for another season at least. The Southern Gaels clubman had been involved with the side for the past four years, during which he led them to two Christy Ring Cups in 2005 and 2007. He replaced Tom Ryan as manager in difficult circumstances midway through 2005 and enjoyed instant success when masterminding Westmeath's victory over a fancied Down in the inaugural Ring Cup final. Last year, he guided the Lake County to a famous Leinster championship victory over Dublin, and they went on to give creditable displays against Kilkenny and Waterford in the Leinster semi-final and All-Ireland qualifiers respectively before losing to a revenge-hungry Dublin in a relegation play-off. Westmeath bounced back this year to win their second Christy Ring Cup, easily accounting for Kildare in the final at Croke Park last Sunday week. However, Galway native Qualter made no secret of his disappointment at the Special Congress decision to deny Westmeath promotion to next year's Liam McCarthy Cup and this may have been a factor in his decision to step down. They will, however, compete in the 2008 Leinster championship after accepting an invitation from the Leinster Council to take part. Qualter's name will now inevitably be linked with the vacant manager's post in neighbouring Offaly, a post which ironically may also interest Faithful County legend Johnny Dooley, who worked alongside Qualter as coach to the Westmeath team this year. The Westmeath County Board has thanked Qualter for the many years he has given to Westmeath hurling, firstly as a player, then as a selector and finally, as team manager. Tweet

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