Brian Dowling steps down as Kilkenny camogie manager

Brian Dowling has stepped down as Kilkenny Camogie manager after four seasons in charge.

Dowling, who led Kilkenny to All-Ireland titles in 2020 and 2022, informed his players of his decision after their reign as champions was ended by Cork last Sunday.

The O'Loughlin Gaels clubman joined the Kilkenny coaching staff under then manager Ann Downey in 2019 before taking sole charge the following year.

Dowling won the ultimate prize in his debut season as manager, the Cats ending a run of three successive final defeats as they beat Galway in the decider.

They they also lifted the O’Duffy Cup last August courtesy of a one-point win over Cork.

Dowling won the manager of the year award in both All-Ireland-winning seasons.

"Kilkenny Camogie would like to sincerely thank Brian and his entire backroom team for their commitment, dedication, and work, and most of all their professionalism that he has brought over the past five years," said Kilkenny chairperson Theresa Aylward.

"He is a two-time All-Ireland-winning manager having won the titles with the panel in 2020 during the very trying Covid-19 period and again in 2022.

"The time that he has put into the panel has been second to none and he has always put the players welfare to the fore in his tenure. He has guided this panel of players to heights that many could only dream of and he will be sorely missed.

"We wish Brian the very best in his future endeavours and we thank him wholeheartedly for what he has done for Kilkenny Camogie."

Denise Gaule sidesteps her way through the Cork defence to score Kilkenny's second goal and set up a big finish at Croke Park. #RTEGAA #Camogie