Jack Sheedy steps down as Longford manager

By Stephen Barry

Jack Sheedy has quit his role as Longford manager, it has been announced.

Sheedy noted that he was leaving the position after two years “to devote more time to his family.”

The Longford GAA’s Executive Committee thanked the Dublin-native and his backroom team for their efforts in molding a youthful panel, following the retirement of many of the county’s most experienced players.

Sheedy led the county to three victories in this year’s Championship – defeating Offaly, Carlow and Clare – while also suffering hammerings at the hands of Dublin and Kildare.

He also led the county to promotion from Division 4, a year after suffering relegation to the bottom tier.

Longford, despite its small size, will be an attractive proposition for potential successors to Sheedy, having contended strongly in underage competitions in recent years.

The full statement from Longford GAA is below:

“Longford GAA’s Executive Committee at its meeting last night were informed of the resignation of Jack Sheedy as Senior Football Manager. In his letter of resignation Jack noted the huge amount of time and commitment he had given to the role over the past 2 years which ultimately impacted on other areas of his life and for that reason Jack has decided to devote more time to his Family.

“Longford GAA’s Executive Committee thank Jack and his backroom team for their efforts over the past 2 years and wish them well in whatever role they decide to take up in the future.

Jack Sheedy has stepped down as Longford football manager. Some great emotion shown by him during the year. pic.twitter.com/Lr7bm6khHt

— sportsfile (@sportsfile) July 22, 2015

“Jack had a successful first year with our U21’s and after a slow start at senior level brought Longford out of Division 4 this current year and have given us our longest run in the Qualifiers in a number of years. Jack successfully moulded a number of players to senior ranks following on from the retirement of a number of vastly experienced players.

“Once again Longford GAA wish to thank Jack, his backroom team and the many players who committed to County teams – both U21 & Senior over the course of his tenure.”