DARREN Gleeson has stepped down as Antrim hurling manager after five years.
A statement from Gleeson, published on the Antrim county board website, confirmed the news, which had been widely expected.
The former Tipperary goalkeeper led them to two Joe McDonagh Cup titles in 2020 and 2022. They also won a Division 2 Allianz League title in 2020 and have remained in the topflight ever since.
This year, Antrim secured Leinster SHC status for a further season, drawing with Wexford and beating Carlow in the round robin stage.
“When I first made the journey in the Spring of 2018 to help with a few sessions, little did I think that I would still be there in 2024,” Gleeson explained, going on to thank the Antrim board, his management team and the players who he managed.
“To the loyal Antrim hurling public, I look forward to meeting you around the playing pitches of Ireland as you continue to support this great county of yours and I continue my hurling journey.”
Gleeson’s involvement with Antrim stretches back to Neal Pedan’s time as manager, when he served as a selector.
Of the 11 Liam MacCarthy Cup counties for 2025, three are currently manager-less, with Antrim joining Waterford and Galway in the hunt for a new man in charge.
Laois, Westmeath and Kerry – who will all compete in next year’s Joe McDonagh – are also in the process of identifying and appointing new managers for 2025.