Fitzgerald steps down as Waterford manager

Davy Fitzgerald has resigned from his role as Waterford hurling manager after two seasons in charge.

The Clare native had another year left on his three-year term but decided to step down.

Fitzgerald, who previously managed Waterford between 2008 and 2011, returned to manage the county following the 2022 season. He guided them to Munster SHC wins over Tipperary in 2023 and Cork at the beginning of the 2024 campaign but they ultimately failed to progress from the province in both years.

Fitzgerald confirmed the news in a statement released on Tuesday night.

“After careful consideration, I have decided to step down as manager of the Waterford senior hurling team,” he said.

“I would like to sincerely thank the players for their efforts over the last two years.

“Just the tiniest of margins prevented us from making Munster’s top three this year and progressing to the 2024 All-Ireland championship.

“It’s my firm belief that the talent is there for Waterford to compete strongly at hurling’s highest level again.

“I’d like to express a massive thanks to Peter (Queally), Eoin (Kelly) and all of my backroom team as well as county chairman, Seán Michael O’Regan, secretary, Pat Flynn, and PRO, Richard Tobin, for their unstinting support during the last two years.

“And finally I want to wish all involved with Waterford GAA every success into the future.”

Waterford GAA chairperson Sean Micheal O’Regan later added: “We sincerely thank Davy for his hard work and dedication over the past two years. His impact on the team has been significant, and we wish him the very best in his future endeavours.”

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