Mickey Harte is set to become Offaly's joint manager. Photo by Sam Barnes/Sportsfile
By Cian O'Connell
Mickey Harte is set to be ratified as joint Offaly senior football team manager, alongside current boss Declan Kelly.
On Monday evening Offaly GAA released a statement confirming that Harte will be put forward for approval at the next County Board meeting.
Offaly GAA chairperson Michael Duignan is encouraged about the appointment. "I am delighted that Mickey Harte has come on board with Declan as joint manager of the Offaly senior football team," Duignan remarked.
"His genuine interest in Offaly GAA and his wealth of experience is what I feel Offaly football needs right now. On behalf of the Offaly County Board, I want to welcome Mickey to the county and I hope all Offaly GAA gaels will come out to show their support to Declan, Mickey and the footballers for the coming year."
Former Tyrone, Louth, and Derry manager Harte is relishing the new role. "I am really looking forward to working with Declan and the players over the next three years," Harte says.
"I am very aware of the history and tradition of Offaly football and believe that there is huge potential within the county.
"I am very excited to work with Declan and the players to get the best out of the footballers in both the League and Championship in 2025. I would like to thank Michael Duignan for his professionalism and honesty during our meetings."
Declan Kelly also welcomed Harte's addition. "This is great news for Offaly football and Offaly GAA in general," Kelly stated.
"I look forward to working closely with Mickey. He has had huge success over the years and we hope to emulate that in the not-too-distant future."