McCarthy calls it quits in Laois after one hard year

Teddy McCarthy had tendered his resignation as manager of the Laois hurling team after just one season in charge, citing work commitments.

The former Cork dual star had been appointed to the position last October and given a three-year term with a review after each season.

That discussion took place at a county executive meeting last Monday and was set to continue at another one scheduled for the same day next week.

However, in a statement released on the Laois County Board website yesterday afternoon, it was confirmed the manager was stepping down. It read: “Teddy McCarthy has tendered his resignation as Laois senior hurling manager. In having worked in the privileged position for just the one season and after considering his own work schedule and the time and travel distance involved for at least three to four nights a week, he has found that he is just unable to give the necessary and required commitment at this present time.

“He would like to thank Laois GAA for affording him the opportunity to manage their senior hurling team and wishes them every success in the future.”

McCarthy’s season with Laois had proven to be a trying one, failing to pick up a single point from five games on their way to relegation from Division 1B. They opened up their Leinster SHC account with a win over Carlow before falling to Dublin by 22 points and then suffering a 25-point deficit against Limerick in the qualifiers.

Meanwhile, Justin McNulty has been reappointed as Laois senior football manager for another season, subject to ratification.

The Armagh native had come in for some stinging criticism at a county board meeting following the Leinster SFC first round exit to Longford.

However, Laois went undefeated through the four stages of the qualifiers before losing out to Dublin in the All-Ireland quarter-final.

“Justin has been re-appointed for another season,” confirmed chairman Brian Allen.