Brian Cody has stepped down as manager of James Stephens following their relegation to the intermediate ranks.
The iconic 11-time All-Ireland winning manager with Kilkenny has reportedly handed the reins to former All-Star forward Eoin Larkin, as the Village aims to return to senior hurling as soon as possible.
Joining Larkin’s backroom team will be another Kilkenny legend, Jackie Tyrrell, marking the first foray into coaching for the decorated defender. The new leadership team is tasked with restoring James Stephens to the top tier of Kilkenny club hurling, a challenge that carries both weighty expectations and an opportunity to lay new foundations for success.
A New Chapter for the Village
Cody’s departure marks the end of another era for the Village. He had returned as a selector under Seamus Dwyer and helped them reach the county final, where Ballyhale Shamrocks ultimately defeated them. When Dwyer stepped away, Cody returned to the managerial role to much fanfare, with club stalwart Eoin Larkin expressing delight at his former inter-county manager’s involvement:
“We are delighted to have him back. He came back last year in the latter rounds of the championship as a selector with us. Seamus Dwyer stepped away at the end of the year, Brian wanted the job and got it.”
Despite the optimism, the season ended in disappointment with James Stephens facing the unthinkable—relegation.
The Legacy of Brian Cody
For many younger Kilkenny fans, there is no memory of hurling before Cody. His unparalleled tenure as Kilkenny manager, beginning in 1998 and spanning over two decades, reshaped the sport. Even players like current Kilkenny captain Eoin Cody were not born when Brian first took charge.
The last Kilkenny manager not named Brian Cody to lift an All-Ireland title was Ollie Walsh in 1993—an astounding 30 years ago. For many, Cody’s dominance is not just a memory but the framework for modern Kilkenny hurling.
The Road Ahead
While relegation is a bitter pill for the Village faithful, James Stephens prepares for the intermediate campaign under the guidance of leaders who have proven their worth on the field’s biggest stages.
The Village is down but far from out—and with legends like Larkin and Tyrrell at the helm, the comeback could be one for the history books.
