Long-serving Collins brings Clare reign to an end

Colm Collins has stepped down as Clare football manager, bringing an end to his 10-season reign in charge.

Following Brian Cody's decision to step away as Kilkenny hurling manager in 2022, Collins was the longest serving inter-county manager in the game before confirming his decision in the aftermath of Clare bowing out of the championship.

The Banner were defeated by Derry in the final round of the All-Ireland group stages, in what was a dead rubber with Clare having lost their previous two games against Donegal and Monaghan.

"I've done my term and it's time for somebody else to take up the baton now," he told RTÉ Sport.

"I think there's a fabulous group of players there and I'm looking forward to watching them without the thumping of the heart."

Appointed in 2013, the Cratloe GAA man led Clare from Division 4 to Division 2 football where they became one of the most consistent sides in the league.

"I think there's a fabulous group of players there and I'm looking forward to watching them without the thumping of the heart."

A run to the 2016 All-Ireland quarter-finals was another highlight, where they were beaten by Kerry. They returned to the last eight in 2022 before losing out to the Oakleafers.

"Initially I took the job for a year and it rolled on and rolled on and rolled on," Collins added.

"I always said that if we had a poor season I'd step down and I suppose this has been a poor season, so I've done what I'd said."

"Colm’s longevity and consistency in pushing Clare football forward and in creating an environment where Clare players worked extremely hard to maximise their potential is a mark of the man," Clare GAA Head of Operations Deirdre Murphy said.

"We thank him sincerely and are sure he will continue to be an important