Naas have performed a U-turn on the inclusion of former Derry manager Rory Gallagher as a coach of the club’s senior football team.
The four-in-a-row Kildare champions confirmed in a statement on Sunday that Gallagher was to be part of Joe Murphy’s management team for 2025. However, the move sparked some strong public kickback – including calls online for club fundraisers to be boycotted and memberships withdrawn.
It is believed that GAA President Jarlath Burns also made contact with Naas on Sunday outlining concerns over the proposed appointment.
On Monday, a club spokesperson confirmed: “Rory Gallagher is now not part of the Naas senior football coaching and management team.”
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Naas backtrack on Rory Gallagher’s inclusion in management team
Gallagher stepped down as Derry manager in May 2023 after his former wife, Nicola, made allegations of domestic abuse. A PSNI investigation brought no charges, however Gallagher was given a temporary debarment from the GAA by the Ulster Council – a decision he later succeeded in overturning.
Gallagher had been coaching Monaghan side Corduff until recently, and in September the former Donegal and Fermanagh manager stated, through his legal team, that he fully intended to return to intercounty management.
He was again linked with the Oak Leaf position towards the end of last year following the departure of Mickey Harte, but ultimately Paddy Tally was appointed as the county’s new manager.
Gallagher’s proposed move to Naas was seen as his first major coaching role since stepping down as Derry manager, the Kildare champions already considered contenders for the Leinster club title this year.
Naas have lost to Dublin opponents in the Leinster Championship in each of the last four years, continuing their hunt for a first provincial title.
On Sunday, a statement from the club read: “Joe Murphy has been reappointed into the role of Naas senior football manager for 2025. Joe has confirmed that his management team will consist of Rory Gallagher, Pádraic Cribben, Kevin Martin, Martin Sweeney and Fionn Higgins.”
Following the public reaction to the announcement, the club’s executive decided not to proceed with Gallagher as part of Murphy’s management set-up.
Murphy is entering his fourth year as Naas manager, having guided the club to three of their four consecutive county triumphs.
Meanwhile, writing in his annual report, Leinster Council secretary Michael Reynolds has highlighted a need for all counties to support the development of more referees.
“The shortage of hurling referees remains a pressing concern, not only in Leinster but across all provinces,” Reynolds stated.
“Addressing this imbalance will require a concerted effort in the years ahead. As we move forward, I urge incoming County Chairpersons to prioritise refereeing within their counties. Increased support and resources are essential to overcoming the recruitment challenges and ensuring the ongoing development of match officials.
“The role of the referee is vital to the integrity of our games, and it is incumbent upon us all to provide the necessary support for their success. With continued collaboration and innovation, I am confident that we can navigate the challenges of the coming year and ensure the growth and sustainability of refereeing within Leinster GAA.”
Reynolds also questioned the decision to remove the pre-league provincial competitions, such as the O’Byrne and McKenna Cups, from the 2025 calendar.
“(The 2024) O’Byrne Cup proved to be a great opportunity for counties to test players, trial tactics, and build momentum ahead of the main season, begging a raised eyebrow at their lack of presence this year,” he added.
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