Updated at 22.33
PADDY CHRISTIE has stepped down as Longford manager, it has been confirmed.
The decision ends a tenure of just under two years, with Christie appointed in August 2022.
The manager oversaw back-to-back O’Byrne Cup wins and in 2023, the team reached the Tailteann Cup quarter-final before losing to eventual finalists Down.
Earlier this year, Longford narrowly missed out on promotion to Division 3 on the final day of the Allianz National Football League.
“Today I’ve informed the Longford GAA Management Committee that I’ve decided to step away from my position as manager with Longford,” Christie said.
“It was a very difficult decision as I have great admiration for the people in the county — players, management, club delegates, supporters, and the Officers of the County Board.
“I’ve enjoyed my time in Longford, I was treated very well and made very welcome throughout the county. Big thanks to everyone involved, of which there are too many to mention.
“A special mention to the County Executive, Club Longford and our Team Sponsors, Glennon Brothers who always tried to accommodate any request, big or small and supported us all along the way. While results didn’t always go our way, these setbacks shouldn’t take away from a lot of good work done in the last two years which will, I believe, serve the team and County well in to the future.
“I want to wish everyone involved with Longford GAA all the very best for the season ahead.”
A Longford statement thanked Christie and his backroom team for their efforts and added that a selection committee will immediately begin the search for the next manager.
Meanwhile, Westmeath have announced the appointment of Seoirse Bulfin as their new Senior Hurling Manager.
David O’Reilly, Michael Frawley and Fergal Lynch have also been confirmed as part of the former Meath manager’s backroom team.
A statement added: “Bulfin, renowned for his extensive experience and expertise in hurling, brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective to the team.
“His strategic vision and dedication to the sport promise to enhance the performance and development of our players.
“We are confident that, under his leadership, Westmeath Hurling will continue to grow and achieve new heights.
“The entire Westmeath GAA community extends a warm welcome to Seoirse Bulfin and looks forward to a successful and exciting future together.”
Ray Ridge just promised he was staying 3 more years
@tbEE5DMm: getting a bit boring now Tom
@colin coady: It’s classic bully boy behaviour, to be honest. Ray may be a pain, but he is a bit of craic. He doesn’t deserve to have this gowl on his case.
@colin coady: don’t read it
Longford finished as the worst football county in the country (lowest rank in Tailteann). Even by usual standards, that is a new low. Paddy Christie is and was many things – a good football manager isn’t one of them.
Would love to see Paddy back in Tipp. Maybe his Tipp mother might persuade him.
Looking at the bigger picture there will be plenty of people willing to have Paddy involved with there team be it club or county level. You hear a lot of All Ireland winners talking about Paddy and just how good he has been for them.
@Leighton Cullen: he was very good with the Tipp under 20s a couple of years ago before he took on the Longford job.