*Donal Moloney. Photograph: Martin Connolly
Three-time All-Ireland U21 winning joint manager, Donal Moloney has cited “ongoing uncertainity” with the appointment process for his decision not to seek charge of the Clare senior hurlers next year.
A joint manager of the senior side alongside Gerry O’Connor for the past three seasons, Moloney was keen to take control of the Banner County in 2019 following O’Connor’s decision to step down last month.
Three weeks ago, the Scariff native presented his proposed management team to Clare County Board officials including Chairman Joe Cooney and Secretary Pat Fitzgerald.
Members of his backroom team had publicly criticised the process adapted by the County Board in announcing the 2020 management with communications officer Mark Dunphy and maor caman Niall O’Connor describing the situation as “disrespectful”.
Four time All Star Brian Lohan confirmed he was seeking the position earlier this week while it has been reported that Louis Mulqueen a selector with the All-Ireland winning side in 2013 is considered to be putting his name forward.
The Clare Echo understands that a players meeting was held following the announcement that Lohan was in the running for the post and the majority of panellists voted in favour of Moloney.
Speaking on Sunday, Donal outlined, “Due to the ongoing uncertainty over the process of selecting new management and despite the support I have received from the hurling squad, I do not wish to inhibit members of the existing management team and persons who had committed to coming on board for 2020 from missing out on opportunities as other counties put together their coaching teams. As a management team therefore, we have taken the decision to not seek another term.
“On behalf of the management team, I would like to thank the players for creating such a fantastic environment over many years and for the honesty of effort and commitment they have shown to their families, friends, their clubs and to their county. They have brought great honour to the Clare jersey in the 12 years I have been involved in intercounty management since 2007 from U16 level up to the senior team. I wish the group the very best for the future. I want to thank Club Clare Hurling Supporters for its invaluable support during the past three years. I also wish the incoming management team the very best for 2020”.
