Poacher term as Leitrim boss extended for two years as search on for new U20 boss

Leitrim GAA have announced that Steven Poacher has been reappointed as manager of the Leitrim Men's Senior Football team on a two year term while they are on the lookout for a new U20 team manager after Barry McWeeney decided not to continue in the role.

Poacher, who stepped into the role at a very late stage last year after Mickey Graham's decision to step down, endured a tough year with a short build-up time and the loss of key players during the year through injury and players travelling abroad. Very popular among players, the Down native saw Leitrim pick up its first win of the year in the final Tailteann Cup game against Tipperary.

However, Leitrim GAA are on the lookout for a new manager of the County U20 side after former Leitrim Senior team star Barry McWeeney decided not to take up the offer of a two year term. The Aughnasheelin clubman led Leitrim to victory in the Philly McGuinness Cup for the Connacht U20 B title. McWeeney had served as a selector under Andy Moran for three years previously.

Minor team joint managers Danny Beck and Ciaran Kennedy were also reappointed for a two year term, the Mohill duo leading Leitrim to their first ever victory in the Connacht Minor B Championship Final as well as an extra-time victory over Down in the All-Ireland Minor B series.

In their statement on the Leitrim GAA website, the County Board said "Following last night’s Management Committee meeting, Leitrim GAA confirms approval for the reappointment of Steven Poacher as Senior Football Manager on a two-year term, subject to ratification at the next meeting of Leitrim GAA County Committee on September 8th.

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"At underage level, Danny Beck and Ciaran Kennedy have been approved for reappointment as joint Minor (U17) managers on a two-year term, maintaining continuity and a consistent player-development pathway.

"Leitrim GAA also confirms that Barry McWeeney was offered a further two-year term as U20 manager but decided not to continue in the role. Leitrim GAA extends sincere thanks to Barry for his leadership over the past four years, having served as selector with Leitrim Senior Team 2022-24, and acknowledges his contribution to Leitrim both on the side-line and as a former player. Grateful appreciation is also extended to his backroom team for their service.

Barry McWeeney chats with his management team during the All-Ireland U20 B Championship Semi-Final against Westmeath in Dr Hyde Park Picture: Willie Donnellan

"The process to confirm a new U20 management team will commence immediately, with details to follow in due course."