Exclusive: Tyrone Ladies football manager Sean O'Kane steps down.
08/09/2024 04:14 PM
By patrick Sharkey,
Sean O'Kane, the manager of the Tyrone Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA) team, has announced his decision to step down after a rollercoaster season that culminated in back-to-back All-Ireland defeats. In an emotional conversation, O'Kane reflected on the highs and lows of his tenure.
O'Kane was candid about the difficulties the team faced throughout the season. “We’ve just gone through the aftermath.”
The failure of the season was palpable as O'Kane described the team's inability to gain momentum.
Despite the challenges, O'Kane was gracious in defeat, giving credit to All Ireland intermediate champions Leitrim. “Good luck to Leitrim,” he said, praising their organisation and fitness. “The running game caused havoc. Absolutely havoc. And they were very, very fit. Played in very wide."
Indicating on key moments in the game, O'Kane noted, “I thought we should have been more down at half-time. I mean, they brought up two good saves. You know, we could have been dead and buried. And I thought that two points, it wasn’t too bad. And then they just racked up to four or five.”
As he steps down, O'Kane reflects on his time with the team and the impact of their recent defeats.
Despite the setbacks, O'Kane remains optimistic about the future of Tyrone LGFA. “At the end of the day, we’re in Division One next year. And whoever’s in charge, my time is up.” He deems that the team is still moving forward, even if this season didn't end as they had hoped. It wasn't to be for the Tyrone Senior Ladies team in Croke Park. Sean O'Kane's side lost 3-11 to 3-10 to Leitrim in the All-Ireland Ladies Intermediate Final. Facing the media after being stunned in an All-Ireland Final when you start as hot favourites isn't easy, but Tyrone boss Sean O'Kane fronted up after last Sunday's TG4 LGFA All-Ireland Intermediate Final and paid warm tribute to victors Leitrim despite his bitter disappointment. Victorious manager Jonny Garrity said he knew it would need a top-class display to bring the Mary Quinn Memorial Cup back to Leitrim in a thrilling TG4 All-Ireland Intermediate Final.
Whilst asked about his own future, O'Kane was reflective but uncertain. “I’ve enjoyed it. I mean, it’s a great bunch of girls. I just hope that some of the older girls hang on with us now. Because at the end of the day, it’s still moving forward. No matter what way you look at it.” He mentioned that he plans to take some time to consider his next steps, with a break and some coaching commitments in Saudi Arabia on the horizon. “I’ve taken a break this week. I’m going back to school. I’ve got a bit of coaching to do in Saudi Arabia. And then I’ll be back to see what the story will be.” O'Kane had three prior terms with the Red Hand. He’s also had stints with Donegal, Antrim and Armagh and led Glenelly to an All-Ireland club final and oversaw Jordanstown. He stepped in with just one League game remaining in 2022.
When asked if a win in the final would have convinced him to stay on, O'Kane was resolute. “Not really, no,” he said, making it clear that his decision was well-measured and not solely based on the outcome of one game. Tyrone manager Sean O'Kane said he was proud of his team. Tyrone went into the ladies All Ireland Intermediate final against Leitrim on Sunday as strong favourites in the eyes of many observers. With two divisions separating the players and the fact that Tyrone had made it all the way to the Division Two league final only a couple of months ago, many expected the Red Hand girls to see off the challenge of their opponents. Unluckily for Tyrone that was not how the game panned out and although they came very close to snatching a draw at the end Sean O'Kane's side finished up on the wrong side of a 3-11 to 3-10 score line. Leitrim signalled their intent right.
Sean O'Kane's time with Tyrone LGFA has been marked by both triumphs and challenges. As he steps down, he leaves behind a legacy of perseverance and resilience. While this season may have stopped in disappointment, O'Kane's leadership has undoubtedly set a strong foundation for the future. As Tyrone prepares to compete in Division 1 next year, the impact of his tenure will continue to be felt.
