Lacey returns to Donegal GAA academy as U16 manager

March 04, 2025

Karl Lacey during his time as Kilcoo manager. ©INPHO/Andy Paton.

Donegal GAA have confirmed that Karl Lacey will manage their U16 development squad for the 2025 season.

It sees the 2012 Footballer of the Year returns to the Donegal GAA Academy two years after resigning as the head of it, citing a lack of support from the county board at the time.

Since then, Lacey has steered Kilcoo to back-to-back Down SFC titles and an Ulster club final appearance against Tyrone’s Errigan Ciaran.

Donegal county board confirmed the Four Masters clubman appointment as U16 manager last night (Monday) and also thanked 1992 All-Ireland winner Martin McHugh who had been temporarily in charge of the squad.

"We wish Karl every success, and we will confirm his backroom team in due course," the statement read.

"We also wish to take this opportunity to thank interim manager Martin McHugh, and his coaches, for their service whilst a permanent appointment was being sought."


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Lacey returns to Donegal GAA academy as U16 manager