Davy keen to stay at Déise helm

WATERFORD hurling manager Davy Fitzgerald has told GAA chiefs in the county that he will continue in the role next season, despite the resignation of his selectors on Monday night.

Selectors Maurice Geary and Peter Queally formally notified the executive of the County Board on Monday night that they were stepping down, amid reports yesterday that Fitzgerald himself faces a routine medical procedure this week.

However, Waterford County Board sources stated last night that former Clare goalkeeper Fitzgerald had indicated his willingness to take charge of the Déise hurlers in 2010, and those sources stressed that Geary had always indicated he would be serving for one season, adding that he and Queally had made their intentions to step down known shortly after the All-Ireland SHC semi-final defeat by Kilkenny.

Last night Queally cited work commitments as his reason for stepping aside, but said he was not ruling out a return to management in the future. Queally stressed he had enjoyed his time with the Waterford senior hurlers, pointing to last year’s dramatic All-Ireland SHC semi-final win over Tipperary as a highlight.

“Without a doubt that was the highlight. It was a great occasion for Waterford people, particularly after suffering so many semi-final defeats over the years.

“The way the game ended, so dramatically, it was a privilege to be involved. There was a lot of emotion in the stadium that day and the result was a credit to the players. I thoroughly enjoyed it, though a selector’s role might be suited to an older person. I enjoyed the coaching side and I might get back into that. I picked up a lot from Davy – and from Justin and Gerald McCarthy. I hope to put that to use over the next few years.”