*Kevin Sammon.
CLARE’S connections with Roscommon hurling have been re-established following the appointment of Bodyke native Kevin Sammon as the Rossies’ new manager.
Sammon has been ratified as the new manager of the Roscommon senior hurlers on a two-year term with the option of an extension, following a review.
Now living in Ennis, the ex-taxi driver is a former Bodyke hurler. He previously managed the Broadford senior hurlers over a decade ago while he was in charge of the O’Callaghans Mills side to win the Junior A championship in 2020, it was the first time the Mills won the competition, defeating Kilmaley in the decider.
His management team includes Newmarket-on-Fergus’ Stephen Cusack who was once again part of the Inagh/Kilnamona set-up this year, the strength and conditioning coach has also been involved with Clare’s senior camogie side, the O’Callaghans Mills senior hurlers and teams within Newmarket-on-Fergus.
Kevin McNamara who was part of the Kilmaley team which lost out to Sammon’s Mills back in 2020 is on board in the management in a coaching and selector’s role. The secondary school teacher in Kilmihil has been involved with development squads in Clare and oversaw Kilmaley’s success in the 2019 U21A hurling championship. He is the son of former Mayor of Clare, Tom McNamara (FF) who retired from politics in 2019.
It will be Cusack’s second stint with the Rossies having been part of Francie O’Halloran’s management. The Ruan man stepped down as manager in February citing player commitment issues. Ex Clare forward, Tommy Guilfoyle of Feakle was coach of the side.
Under their watch, Roscommon contested the 2022 Nicky Rackard final, losing out to Tyrone.
Limerick’s Tommy Moloney is also part of Sammon’s management which is expected to have further additions. He said, “I am delighted to have the opportunity to fill the role of Roscommon senior hurling manager for the 2023/24 season”. He added, “I am really looking forward to working with the players, management team, clubs and County Board for the coming season.”
Roscommon GAA Hurling Committee chairperson Christy McDermott said, “I am delighted with the appointment of Kevin and Roscommon GAA look forward to working with him and his backroom team and I hope this management team and the players can move Roscommon hurling on to great things. The Roscommon hurling committee has thanked all the candidates who applied for the position and the interview panel for all their hard work.
