Surprise as Mickey Harte takes Kilcoo reins

Offaly joint manager Mickey Harte celebrates with legendary Faithful County supporter Mick McDonagh after the win over Kildare in Tullamore ©INPHO/James Crombie

Kilcoo have turned to one of the most decorated managers in Gaelic football in their quest to regain the Down SFC title in 2027.

Just two days after Clonduff succeeded them as Frank O'Hare Cup holders, the Magpies have ratified Mickey Harte as their new boss. The legendary Tyrone man takes over from Martin Corey, who stepped down after their bid for an eight-in-a-row of county titles was ended at the semi-final by Burren last month.

It marks a return to club management for Harte whose last role was as joint-manager of the Offaly senior footballers alongside Declan Kelly. The paired stepped aside after the Faithful County were eliminated from this year's Tailteann Cup by eventual winners Wicklow. Harte's last club management role was in 2002 when he led his native Errigal Ciarán to Ulster club glory.

He has been involved in inter-county management ever since, leading Tyrone to three All-Ireland SFC titles in 2003, '05 and '08, as well as having stints in charge of Louth, Derry and Offaly.

Kilcoo, who have won 13 of the last 15 Down SFC titles, posted on Facebook last night: "Eoghan Rua Cill Chua CLG are delighted to announce the appointment of Mickey Harte as senior team manager.

“Mickey was unanimously ratified at a club committee meeting this evening and the club are over the moon that the Tyrone man has agreed to become our manager.

“Mickey is renowned as one of the top managers in the GAA. He led Tyrone to an unprecedented three All-Ireland senior football championships, six Ulster titles, a National League and 12 Dr McKenna Cups during his record 17-year tenure. Harte also managed Louth and Derry before becoming joint-manager of Offaly in 2024.

"Details of Mickey’s backroom team will be confirmed at a later date. We wish our new management team and players all the best for the 2027 season."