Gaelic Games

Davy Fitzgerald steps down as Wexford hurling manager

Former Clare goalkeeper spent five years in charge and won a Leinster title in 2019

Davy Fitzgerald has stepped down as Wexford manager. Photo: Tommy Dickson/Inpho

Seán Moran's face
Seán Moran
Fri Jul 30 2021 - 10:33

Davy Fitzgerald has stepped down as Wexford hurling manager after five years in charge. It was announced on Friday morning that he had relayed his decision to the county board.

The development came just short of two weeks since the qualifier defeat by Clare, the county with whom he had won All-Irelands as a player and manager. It concluded two disappointing seasons since the great highlight of winning the Leinster title in 2019 for the first time in 15 years and coming close to eventual champions Tipperary in the All-Ireland semi-final.

His record with Wexford saw the county contend at the top of the game, both in the top division of the league and as great rivals for Brian Cody’s Kilkenny. The counties played only recently a terrific semi-final in the Leinster championship, which Wexford came agonisingly close to winning before it went to extra-time. Had they won, this season would still be ongoing.

Overall, under Fitzgerald, Wexford broke even with Kilkenny: two wins each and a draw.

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In response, county chair Micheál Martin thanked the departing manager.

“We wish to sincerely thank Davy and his backroom team for the manner in which they have carried out their duties over their stewardship. Davy’s arrival in 2017 resulted in immediate promotion to Division One of the National Hurling League and a first Leinster final appearance since 2008.

“In the last five years we have been consistently competitive, with the 2019 Leinster final victory the standout moment.

“Davy’s contribution to the activities of Wexford GAA went above and beyond those expected from a senior team manager. Davy is and will always be held in the highest of esteem by all in Wexford GAA.”

Fitzgerald elaborated on his decision in the statement, saying that the demands of commuting from his home in Sixmilebridge had been a key influence on his departure.

“I have never felt closer or happier with any team in all my years coaching and I thoroughly enjoyed every second of my five years in Wexford.

“It has been an absolute privilege and an honour to have worked with every one of the players during my time in Wexford. There were ups and downs, highs and lows, as is the nature of sport, all of which was experienced with a sense of collective pride and enjoyment.

“To the players, county board, clubs and people of Wexford, I wish to thank each and every one of you for playing no small part in every enjoyable second of the journey.”