Mickey Harte appointed new Offaly joint-manager

The All-Ireland winning boss will join current manager Declan Kelly in the Faithful County backroom.

KEEP THE FAITH: Mickey Harte with new co-manager Declan Kelly and county chief, Michael Duignan. Pic: Offaly GAA 

Mickey Harte has been appointed as joint manager of the Offaly senior football team.

He will join manager Declan Kelly, who was appointed as manager in 2023, on a three-year term. The Former All-Ireland U20 winning boss enjoyed a mixed debut campaign as they survived in Division 3, were defeated by Dublin in the Leinster championship semi-final and failed to progress out of their group in the Tailteann Cup.

The makeup of the backroom team will be announced in the coming weeks.

“I am really looking forward to working with Declan and the players over the next three years,” said Harte in a statement.

“I am very aware of the history and tradition of Offaly football and believe there is huge potential in the county. I am really excited to work with Declan and the players to get the best out of the footballers in both the League and Championship in 2025. I would like to thank Michael Duignan for his professionalism and honesty during our meetings.” 

Offaly chairperson Michael Duignan said Harte’s experience made him an ideal candidate.

“I am delighted Mickey Harte has come on board with Declan as joint manager of the Offaly senior football team.

“His genuine interest in Offaly GAA and his wealth of experience is what I feel Offaly needs right now. On behalf of the Co Board I want to welcome Mickey to the county and I hope all Offaly GAA Gaels will come out and show their support to Declan, Mickey and the footballers for the coming year.” 

Last month Harte stepped down as Derry boss after just one season at the helm. The three-time All-Ireland winner made the shock move to the Ulster outfit after three years with Louth.

A career that started with an 18-year stint in Tyrone, the 71-year-old is now set for a 23rd consecutive season in intercounty management.

Current manager Declan Kelly welcomed the appointment: “This is great news for Offaly football and Offaly GAA in general. I look forward to working closely with Mickey. He has had huge success over the years and we hope to emulate that in the not too distant future.”