Liam McHale has stepped down after two years in charge of the Mayo senior ladies footballers.

A statement released by Mayo LGFA after Saturday’s 2-14 to 0-13 All-Ireland senior relegation playoff semi-final win over Leitrim confirmed McHale’s departure. The former star midfielder was ratified for a three-year term in late 2023, but has decided not to see out the final year.

“Following the successful retention of senior championship status, Liam McHale has stepped down as Mayo senior ladies football manager after two years at the helm,” the statement read.

“McHale, a sporting icon in County Mayo, and GAA and basketball legend beloved by the Gaelic football family, crossed codes in late 2023 when he assumed the managerial role with Mayo LGFA.

“The 2025 season presented significant challenges for Mayo, with the team finishing bottom of the National Football League and suffering relegation to Division 2. However, the season ended positively with Mayo securing a crucial victory over Leitrim to retain senior championship status for 2026 - ensuring the county's continued participation in the top tier of ladies football.

“Any year in the top flight of LGFA is challenging. This has been a season of huge transition for Mayo ladies football.

“Mayo LGFA faced unprecedented squad changes with significant player departures. We have seen great young talent emerging and we are immensely proud of the young players who stepped up, made their debuts, and showed tremendous character throughout the campaign. Captain Danielle Caldwell deserves special mention for her leadership during a challenging period of considerable change.

“The commitment required at senior inter-county level is immense - not just from players, managers, coaches, and the extended managerial team, but from their families too. We are grateful to Liam and his entire backroom team for their dedication to Mayo ladies football.

“As Mayo LGFA looks to the future, the retention of senior status provides a strong foundation for continued development. The experience gained by younger players this season, combined with the emergence of new talent, positions the county well for the years ahead.

“We give our heartfelt thanks to all Mayo supporters for their loyalty during a difficult season and look forward to building on today's success together.

“Mayo LGFA extends its sincere gratitude to Liam McHale for his service to LGFA over the past two years, his lifetime of service to the County Mayo, and we wish him every success in his future endeavours.”

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