Ennis steps down as hurling boss

Martin Ennis three-year term as Meath senior hurling manager ended following the Leinster SHC campaign and the Athboy man has announced he will not be seeking a new term in charge.

Ennis took over from Cillian Farrell in 2014 and led Meath to the Kehoe Cup in his first year in charge and then claimed the Christy Ring Cup in dramatic circumstances in 2016 as well as securing promotion to NHL Div 2A following a stunning league campaign earlier this year.

Winning the Christy Ring Cup earned Meath a place in the Leinster SHC for the first time in 13 years and Ennis guided Meath to a first Leinster championship win since 2002 when the Royals defeated Kerry in Navan.

Speaking to Jackie Cahill after announcing his decision last night Ennis admitted it wasn't an easy decision and he wished Meath the best of luck.

“It's been an honour and a privilege to manage the Meath senior hurling team for the last three years,' said Ennis.

“After taking time out, and talking with family and friends, I have decided not to seek reappointment for a fourth term.

“This has not been an easy decision to make, especially with the achievements during this time.

“I want to express my sincere thanks to all involved in this success. I wish the Meath senior hurling team every success in the future.â€

Ennis was nominated for a fourth year in charge, but his withdrawal from the race leaves Kildalkey's Nick Fitzgerald as the only name in the hat.

Fitzgerald confirmed this morning that since Ennis has signaled his intention not to seek another term then he would be interested in the job.

Waterford native Fitzgerald has been working with Meath underage development squads for several years and was in charge of the Meath minor hurlers this year.

Meath Co Board PRO Martin O'Halloran released a statement thanking Ennis for his time and commitment to Meath hurling.

'Coiste na Mi and the management of Meath GAA wish to thank Martin Ennis for the magnificent three years service he gave Meath hurling and we wish him the best of luck in whatever path his hurling career takes him on.

Martin and his backroom team three year term came to a end recently and he has decided not to let his name go forward for another term 

'The progression of Meath hurling under the management of Martin has been phenomenal and he certainly leaves us in a much healthier position than when he took over.

'Winning the Christy Ring Cup in 2016 will forever be the highlight of not just Martin's time in charge, but also in the history of Meath hurling.

'Having had to endure the controversy that wasn't of Meath or Martin's making following the initial Christy Ring cup final against Antrim, Martin handled the fall out with remarkable calm, composure and commonsense and he raised the profile of Meath hurling to a whole new level.

'To take Meath back to Croke Park two weeks after having the Christy Ring Cup taken off us and then win it again proved what an outstanding manager and coach Martin is.

'This year he led Meath to the NHL Div 2B title in convincing fashion with victory over Wicklow in Parnell Park, and after securing a magnificent win over Kerry in Meath's first Leinster SHC game since 2004 Martin once again had Meath riding high.

Disappointment followed with the losses to Laois and Westmeath, but however the bravery of Meath in those games showed just how healthy hurling is in the county because of the impact and input of Martin Ennis.

'Thank you Martin and all your selectors and backroom team  and best of luck with everything you do in the future.'

The vacancy is likely to be discussed at the next Co Board meeting on Tuesday 8th August.