Sligo GAA Appoints New Management Duo for Senior Football and Hurling Teams

Sligo GAA has officially announced its new management teams for both the senior football and senior hurling squads,signaling a new era for the county’s Gaelic games. Following Tony McEntee’s departure after five years, the senior football reins have been handed to Paul Taylor, who will be assisted by former Sligo star Eamonn O’hara. Meanwhile, Tom Hennessy returns to manage the Sligo senior hurling team.

Paul Taylor and Eamonn O’Hara Lead Sligo Senior Football Charge

Paul Taylor, a respected figure in Sligo GAA circles, takes over the senior football management role. Taylor previously guided the Yeats County to thier first Connacht Under-20 title success in 2022. His coaching experience also extends to the Longford senior set-up under Paddy Christie, as well as managing his club Easkey and currently being part of the coaching ticket at Mayo club Knockmore.

Joining Taylor as part of the management team is Eamonn O’Hara, an All-Star recipient in 2002 and a pivotal player in Sligo’s memorable Connacht final victory over Galway in 2007. O’Hara has a proven track record in management, leading his native Tourlestrane to five consecutive county titles and securing back-to-back championships with Mohill in Leitrim. He is currently managing roscommon club Boyle.

The backroom team for Taylor and O’Hara is set to include Con O’Meara, who was joint-manager of the Coolera-Strandhill side that achieved a maiden Connacht club title in 2024, and Donegal All-Ireland winner Eamon McGee. Further additions to the core team are anticipated before the inter-county season commences.

Sean Boyle will continue in his role as the team’s Strength and Conditioning (S&C) coach. Stephen Gilmartin remains as the team doctor, with tourlestrane’s Alan Dunne taking the lead as physio and rehabilitation specialist.Aidan Carty of Coolera Strandhill will continue his duties as kit man.

under the previous stewardship of Armagh native Tony McEntee, Sligo experienced a period of growth, marked by promotion from Division 4 in 2023 and a subsequent Connacht final appearance. While 2024 saw some challenges, including a less than stellar Division 3 campaign and an early exit from the Tailteann Cup, the new management duo will aim to build on the foundations laid.

Tom Hennessy Returns to Manage Sligo Senior Hurling

In hurling news, limerick native Tom Hennessy has been appointed to manage the Sligo senior hurling team for a two-year term, subject to an annual review. Hennessy previously served as the lead coach for the senior team in 2025.

He will be joined by lead coach Reece Armstrong and specialist goalkeeping coach Derek Kelly. Iarlaith Cox will serve as the S&C coach. the management team will be further strengthened by the addition of two members from within the Sligo hurling community, one of whom will also be part of the yet-to-be-appointed county U20 management team. Darren Norman and Gary Gilgan will continue their roles as kitmen.