Carlow GAA is on the hunt for an interim senior football manager after Shane Curran stepped away from his role with immediate effect.
The Roscommon man’s departure was confirmed in a county board statement last night, citing “player-related issues” as the reason behind his decision.
The statement read:
“Shane Curran has informed Carlow GAA that he and his backroom team are stepping away from the management of the Carlow Senior Football Team with immediate effect. This decision was based on player-related issues which he believed were beyond the scope of the management team.
“Carlow GAA are in the process of looking for an interim Senior Football Manager for the Championship Season.”
Timing of Departure Raises Concerns
Curran’s departure comes at a crucial time for Carlow, just a week and a half before their Leinster Championship opener against Meath. The sudden managerial change is an unwelcome distraction as preparations for the championship reach a critical stage.
Meanwhile, Carlow’s under-20s suffered a disappointing start to their Leinster campaign last night, falling to Wexford by two points at Netwatch Cullen Park. Speaking after the game, under-20s manager Simon Rea addressed both his side’s performance and the senior managerial upheaval.
Rea Reflects on Under-20 Defeat
Rea admitted his disappointment with his team’s display, particularly in the first half.
“Extremely disappointed because we probably prepared better than that. We’ll get to the bottom of it, but maybe there was a bit of nervousness. We were at home, things had gone well leading into it, and we just didn’t seem to be at it on the pitch—especially in the first half, where we were well below where we’d expect to be.”
“Wexford were the better team, and we have to be honest about that. It’s bitterly disappointing for the players because they put a huge effort into preparing for this championship and wanted to show up and get a victory for Carlow, but it didn’t happen.”
Rea on Curran’s Exit
When asked about the senior team’s situation, Rea acknowledged the disruption caused by Curran’s departure.
“First and foremost, it’s extremely disappointing for Carlow GAA. We’re coming off the back of two good wins and two good performances. I don’t know the context behind it, if I’m being honest, but it’s disappointing—especially being just a week and a half out from playing Meath in the first round of the Leinster Championship. It doesn’t help from a preparation side of things.”
“I know the group of players, and the majority of them are really, really good lads. I don’t know the full context behind why Shane has left, but it’s not good for Carlow GAA, bottom line.”
Would Rea Take the Role?
Given the uncertainty, speculation has already begun about who might step into the interim role. Rea, when asked if he would consider taking on the job, did not rule it out but stressed the need for a long-term vision.
“I’m willing to help Carlow GAA in whatever way I can. I’m sure they’re going to go through a process and look for candidates or the best short-term option. Personally, I think we should be thinking long-term—going after the right candidates. There’s enough talent in that squad to be better than we are, 100%.”
“I’d be willing to sit down with the lads if they want to have a conversation with me or get my opinion on anything, but at the end of the day, I want what’s best for Carlow GAA.”
What’s Next for Carlow?
With the Leinster Championship looming, Carlow GAA faces a race against time to appoint an interim manager and steady the ship. Whoever steps in will have the difficult task of refocusing the squad amidst a period of uncertainty.
