Bulfin resigns as Meath hurling boss 'due to personal and family commitments'

DEPARTURE: Former Meath manager Seoirse Bulfin during the Christy Ring Cup final. Pic: Harry Murphy, Sportsfile

Seoirse Bulfin has cited “personal and family commitments” as the reason for his mid-season departure as Meath hurling manager.

Meath GAA released a statement on Wednesday morning announcing the departure of Bulfin as manager just four and a half weeks before their Joe McDonagh Cup championship opener against Laois.

Meath’s recent league campaign saw them finish bottom of Division 2A, winning just one of their five outings.

2013 All-Ireland-winning Clare coach Bulfin was appointed Royals manager ahead of the 2023 season, guiding the county back to the Joe McDonagh when winning the third-tier Christy Ring last June. 

He had served as coach during the 2022 season before rising to the top job later that year.

“I am writing to inform you of my intention to resign as senior hurling manager with immediate effect due to personal and family commitments,” Bulfin wrote to Meath GAA. “The last two and a half years have been immensely satisfying and enjoyable, culminating in winning the league and Christy Ring double last year.

“The organisation and professionalism shown by the coaching team with whom I’ve worked with over the course of three seasons, and who left no stone unturned in our quest to do our very best for Meath GAA, and Meath hurling, in particular, is to be commended.

“I’d like to take this opportunity to thank all members of Coiste na Mí, senior hurling backroom members and players who made the last three seasons so enjoyable. I would like to wish the very best of luck to all involved with Meath GAA going forward.” 

A statement from Meath GAA added: “Coiste na Mí C.L.G. wish to put on record our thanks to Seoirse for his work with the team both as manager over the last two seasons and as head coach prior to his appointment as manager. We wish him every success in the future.

“We will be regrouping in preparation for the Joe McDonagh Cup and have no further comment to make at present.”