‘I walk away full of pride' – Kieran Donaghy sends emotional message to Armagh GAA fans after confirming exit
Five years of making the trek from Kerry have come to an end for Donaghy, who has
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Kieran Donaghy has left Armagh
Credit: Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
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He bid an emotional farewell to Armagh fans
Credit: Dáire Brennan/Sportsfile
The Austin Stacks man, nicknamed Star, joined Kieran McGeeney's set-up as selector and forwards coach ahead of the 2021 season.
And he played a part in Armagh's crowning as All-Ireland champions for just the second time in their history last summer.
A four-time All-Ireland winner as a player, Donaghy said: 'I walk away full of pride, memories and deep gratitude.
'Thank you to Kieran McGeeney, who took a chance on a rookie coach. You said one year, it became five. Only you could pull that off. You said I could help and that you would help me in return. You were a man of your word every step of the way.
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'To the backroom team, thank you for pushing me, teaching me and raising the bar. I learned so much just being around ye.
'To the players, what a group. Tough, resilient and relentless. Watching you chase your dream and finally reach the top in 2024 was a privilege. Especially to the older lads, you never stopped believing and you earned every bit of it.'
McGeeney is expected to remain the longest-serving manager in inter-county football by guiding Armagh for a 12th season.
As for Donaghy, his services are sure to be in demand elsewhere.
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Armagh GAA said: 'As Kieran Donaghy steps away from his role with the Armagh senior football team, we want to express our deepest gratitude for the incredible impact he has made over the past five years.
'His belief in this group never wavered and his presence helped shape the identity, resilience and ambition of our team.
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'His energy on the training field, in the dressing room and on game days was inspiring.
'Being part of the team that delivered our second All-Ireland title is a legacy that will live long in our hearts and his influence will be felt for many years to come.
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'On behalf of the players, management and backroom team, county board and fans — thank you, Kieran, for everything.'
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