Updated 00.15
JUSTIN MCNULTY HAS stepped down as Laois football manager, a spokesperson for the county board confirmed this evening.
McNulty indicated that he would not be seeking another term in charge after Laois’s season ended with defeat to Donegal in the All-Ireland qualifiers.
“[Justin] believes now is the time to move on and seek other challenges,” the Laois County Board said in a short statement.
The former Armagh footballer took over at the O’Moore County in the summer of 2010, replacing Sean Dempsey, and in his first season led Laois to promotion and the Divison 2 league final where they were beaten by Donegal.
But a disappointing Championship exit was followed by immediate relegation in 2012, putting pressure on McNulty which intensified when Laois were shocked by Longford in the first round of the Leinster Championship.
A run through the qualifiers to the All-Ireland quarter-finals was enough to earn McNulty a third season at the helm but Laois failed to get out of Division 2 this spring before suffering another first-round exit in Leinster, this time against Louth.
“[Justin] is grateful for the opportunity afforded to him by Laois County Board and feels incredibly honoured to have worked with such a talented and committed group of players,” the statement read.
“Justin would like to give massive recognition to the back room team for their tremendous effort and dedication over the past three seasons.
“Most of all, Justin would like to thank the Laois players. While there were periods of adversity endured together along the way, the character the team developed will stand them in good stead going forward. Justin would like to wish the players all the best for the future.
“Laois GAA wish to thank Justin McNulty for his commitment and dedication over the past three years and wish him well in the future.”
– Originally published 22.31
