Antrim appoint McShane as new hurling manager

Michael McShane has been appointed as the new Antrim senior hurling manager.

The Ballycastle man takes over from Davy Fitzgerald who departed at the end of the Joe McDonagh Cup campaign following two years at the helm.

McShane was at the helm of the county's U20s during that time, leading them to a Leinster preliminary quarter-final last year and this year's Leinster B title, having been eliminated from the top tier by Meath.

Previously, McShane guided Derry club Slaughtneil for nine seasons, leading them to a first Ulster title in 2016 and adding a further three before departing after a provincial final defeat by Cushendall in 2023.

In that time, McShane also spent three years with Tyrone's senior hurlers, leading them a Nicky Rackard Cup triumph in 2022.

"Michael brings a wealth of experience to the role, along with an extensive knowledge of Antrim hurling," said Antrim chairperson Seamus McMullan.

"We are an ambitious hurling county, and that ambition is shared by Michael and his incoming management team.

"Everyone across Antrim will wish them well, and when the competitions begin in 2027, the county will be fully behind our players and management.

"I also want to thank the selection committee for overseeing a diligent, thorough, and professional appointment process."

McShane's appointment is to be ratified as an Antrim county committee meeting next week.

Antrim will play in Division 1B of the National Hurling League and Joe McDonagh Cup in 2027.