Deane steps down as Mayo minor football team manager
Sean Deane has informed Mayo GAA that he is stepping away as the minor (Under 17) football team manager after completing his three-year term.
During his time in charge, Deane led Mayo to back-to-back Connacht titles in 2022 and 2023, while his swashbuckling 2022 team went on to reach the All-Ireland final before losing to neighbours Galway in the decider.
Announcing his decision, Deane said: “After three seasons in the privileged position of Mayo Under 17 team manager, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the many people who helped me and my management team represent Mayo to the very best of our ability.
“Personally, it has been an honour to work with the very finest of footballers. They are fantastic young men who excelled in both a football context and as human beings. They represented their families, clubs and the county of Mayo in the best possible fashion.
“Over my three-year tenure I was assisted greatly by the officers of the County Board, the executive and the delegates, who gave us the backing required to compete at the highest level, and I would like to thank them for that.
“The many clubs who had players involved in our squads deserve huge praise. They sent us young men with the skills and attitude required to represent Mayo excellently on the inter-county stage – and the influence the academy structure had on the success of our Under 17 squad in recent seasons cannot go unnoticed. I am very aware of the contributions others made along the way to our successful tenure.
“A special word of thanks to the wonderful parents who were tireless in their support of our squads over the past three seasons. They were the silent power behind all of us and deserve huge credit.
“Finally, a word of thanks to my management team. The men and women who worked alongside me gave tireless, professional and dedicated service. They helped create an environment in which our footballers could thrive and for that I am eternally grateful.
“As this is my final year of my three-year term, I will not be seeking an extension to my contract. I wish the incoming minor management the very best and if I can help out in any way I will always do so. The future of Mayo football is a bright one.”
At last night's Coiste Chondae meeting, Seamus Tuohy, Mayo County Board chairperson, thanked Sean and all his management team for their huge contribution to Mayo minor teams over the last three years.
He said they put in a great effort to win two Connacht titles and reach the 2022 All-Ireland minor final, and above all greatly enhanced the development of the players in his three-year tenure as Mayo minor manager.
Mr. Tuohy wished Sean and all his backroom team the very best and said he had no doubt they would continue their involvement in Mayo football at both club and county level.