Darren Gleeson has stepped down as Antrim senior hurling team manager. Photo by Shauna Clinton/Sportsfile
By Cian O'Connell
Darren Gleeson has stepped down as manager of the Antrim senior hurling team.
During his time in charge of the Saffrons, the Portroe clubman guided Antrim to two Joe McDonagh Cup victories.
In a statement released on Monday morning, Gleeson reflected on a satisfying stint with Antrim, initially as a coach before becoming manager. "When I first made the journey in the Spring of 2018 to help with a few sessions, little did I think that I would still be there in 2024," Gleeson remarked. "For this to have happened there are a lot of people I need to thank.
"To Naoibh, Caoimhe, Sean and Padraic, Mam and Dad, Flan and Una and our families, I thank you for your unwavering support during my tenure. The journey would not have been possible without you and our friends.
"To the Antrim County Board that appointed me, Neal Peden who gave me the opportunity and Gary O’Kane who made that first phone call, I thank you and will be forever grateful. To the Board and their officers that I have worked with, I thank you for your support."
Gleeson also acknowledged the effort and enthusiasm of his players and backroom team, who contributed significantly. "To the clubs of Antrim, thank you for nurturing and supplying the players to the county," Gleeson added.
"You should be immensely proud of them and what they have achieved to date. For the Minor and U20 management teams, who are working so hard to bring the county forward, I thank you for your support and co-operation during my tenure.
"To the loyal Antrim hurling public, I look forward to meeting you around the playing pitches of Ireland as you continue to support this great county of yours and I continue my hurling journey."
