Portlaoise have appointed Pat Critchley as their new senior hurling manager.

Laois' first All-Star recipient in 1985, Critchley takes over from Cyril Duggan who stepped down at the end of last season. Critchley won four SHC and four SFC medals as a player with 'The Town' and led IT Carlow to an historic Sigerson Cup final appearance in 2020. The teacher has also had a long involvement with Scoil Chriost Rí.

Portlaoise have also confirmed that Turlough O'Brien will be continuing as their senior football manager for a second year.

O'Brien won five Carlow SFC titles as a player and five more as a manager of his beloved Éire Óg, the most recent coming in 2023. He also managed Carlow team for six years, during which he led them to promotion to Division 3 of the Allianz League and a famous Leinster SFC victory over neighbours Kildare in 2018.

Portlaoise GAA said: “We’re happy to confirm our senior football and hurling managers for 2026.

“Turlough O’Brien will lead the Senior Men’s Footballers again and Pat Critchley will take the reins of the Senior Hurlers.

“We wish both men the very best of luck for the season ahead. Backroom teams will be announced in the near future.”

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