Kevin O’Brien departs Westmeath hurling job

Now former Westmeath manager Kevin O’Brien. Pic ©INPHO/Dan Clohessy

Kevin O’Brien has stepped down as Westmeath senior hurling manager after one season in charge.

O’Brien’s departure is a major blow for the county ahead of the collective inter-county return to training on November 20.

Former Kilkenny coach and Laois manager Eddie Brennan was due to be part of O’Brien’s management team along with ex-Clare midfielder Ollie Baker, who had been part of this year’s set-up, Adrian Clancy (Offaly), former Wexford coach and Laois native Shane Keegan and Niall Stack (Offaly).

Clonkill man O’Brien had previously managed the county’s U20s and came on board in August 2025 to replace Seoirse Bulfin. It means Westmeath are looking for their fourth manager in as many years.

Speaking to the Westmeath Examiner, O’Brien denied suggestions that there wasn’t enough commitment from players and that he had been “thrown under the bus”.

He said: “I’m a Westmeath man and I have given my heart and soul to this. I have plans in place, Abbotstown (GAA Centre of Excellence) has been booked, I only want the best for hurling in the county. But I have been thrown under the bus here. People have set about undermining me at every turn and they have succeeded.” 

A statement from the county board read on Thursday evening: “Westmeath GAA confirms that Kevin O’Brien’s tenure as senior hurling manager has come to a close. We thank Kevin for his commitment and contribution to Westmeath hurling and the senior hurling team in 2026 and wish him every success in the future.

“Westmeath will now commence the search for a new senior hurling manager for 2027.” 

Westmeath had a mixed 2026 season in which they finished fifth in the Joe McDonagh Cup, one position above relegated London, having just missed out on promotion from Division 2 to Division 1B. They finished on nine points with Kerry but lost out on score difference after the counties had drawn their Round 2 meeting.