John Kiely taking career break from vice-principal position

His leave covers the secondary school's next academic year and would see him return in September 2025.

ELECTION CONTENDER: John Kiely's appearance at Fianna Fáil’s Ard Fhéis in 2022 as well as his refusal to rule out a future in politics has prompted speculation he may be a candidate for the party in the next General Election. Picture: Bryan Keane/Inpho

Limerick manager John Kiely is taking a career break from his vice-principal position in The Abbey School in Tipperary town.

Kiely’s leave covers the secondary school's next academic year and would see him return in September 2025. In The Abbey School's summer newsletter, principal David Sadlier praised the six-time All-Ireland winning manager’s dedication to the institution, which began in 1997. Kiely served as principal between 2013 and 2023 before taking up the vice-principal position last year.

“Our Deputy Principal John Kiely will take a career break next year as he explores new opportunities,” wrote Sadlier. “He has given 27 years of service to The Abbey School as a teacher, Principal, and Deputy Principal, bringing enormous energy, enthusiasm, and wisdom to so many aspects of school life.

“He will be missed next year by the school community as we wish him well in what I’m sure will be an action filled year ahead.” 

Kiely’s one-year term, his eighth in charge of Limerick, concluded with Sunday’s All-Ireland semi-final defeat to Cork. His previous agreements were either two or three years in length.

Asked if completing the five-in-a-row would have made it easier to step down, Kiely responded quickly: “Well, the answer is that hasn’t been done, so we don’t have to worry about that then, do we?” 

After last year’s All-Ireland final win over Kilkenny, Kiely admitted his time in charge of Limerick might be close to an end. Speaking about being part of his daughters’ Aoife and Ruth’s camogie futures, he remarked: “Who knows how long it will last for? It will probably not last for much longer.” 

He added: “I would hope we will put in place good foundation stones for the future. It’s a big part of what we’re about as well. But I’m looking forward to being the head camogie coach in Galbally for maybe a few years too. I need to get back there.” 

Kiely’s appearance at Fianna Fáil’s Ard Fhéis in 2022 as well as his refusal to rule out a future in politics has prompted speculation he may be a candidate for the party in the next General Election.

It had been suggested he might run for the elected Limerick mayor position but if he is to run for office it will most likely be in Limerick County. Queried about his future intentions last September, Kiely replied: "My wife (Louise) tells me politics is out for me," but added "time will tell, time will tell.

“Some people have asked (about running for elections), but they haven't gotten an answer. Lots have asked, who knows what’s down the road, and hopefully opportunities will come my way.

"I’ll assess them as they come, and hopefully, I’ll make the right decision for me and for whatever organisation that might be.”