Paddy Christie steps down as the search for a new Longford senior football manager begins

Stuck in Division 4 of the National League and who lost all three games in the group stage of the Tier 2 Tailteann Cup Championship this season, former Dublin star Paddy Christie has made the decision to step down as the manager of the Longford senior football squad after two years in charge.

The shock defeat against Waterford in the Tailteann Cup clash at O’Moore Park in Portlaoise on Saturday June 1 which was watched by the official attendance of just 75 spectators saw the state of Longford football reach a very low ebb and the only way is up for the new management team with perhaps a local man getting the opportunity to be installed as the new boss. 

Christie, to his credit, guided the county to O’Byrne Cup triumphs in 2023 & 2024 but the results were generally poor and relegation from Division 3 of the NFL last season was a bitter blow for all concerned.

The following statement was released by Longford GAA on Tuesday evening: 

Paddy Christie informed the Longford GAA Management Committee of his decision to step down as Longford Senior Football Team Manager after two years in the role.

Paddy was appointed in August 2022, and together with his backroom team, they have brought the highest level of professionalism to the preparation of the Longford Senior Football team.

During their tenure, the team management secured back-to-back O’Byrne Cup wins with the county. In 2023, Longford reached the Tailteann Cup preliminary quarter-final losing out to eventual finalists Down, and in 2024 we narrowly lost out on promotion to Division 3 on the final day of the Allianz National Football League.

Chairperson Albert Cooney and the Longford GAA Management Committee wish to thank Paddy and his backroom team for their dedication, professionalism, and commitment to Longford football over the past two years and wish them well in their future endeavours.

Paddy Christie added:

“Today I’ve informed the Longford GAA Management Committee that I’ve decided to step away from my position as manager with Longford.

“It was a very difficult decision as I have great admiration for the people in the county - players, management, club delegates, supporters, and the officers of the County Board.

“I’ve enjoyed my time in Longford, I was treated very well, and made very welcome throughout the county. Big thanks to everyone involved, of which there are too many to mention.

“A special mention to the County Executive, Club Longford and our Team Sponsors, Glennon Brothers who always tried to accommodate any request, big or small and supported us all along the way.

“While results didn’t always go our way, these setbacks shouldn’t take away from a lot of good work done in the last two years which will, I believe, serve the team and County well into the future.

“I want to wish everyone involved with Longford GAA all the very best for the season ahead.”

A selection committee will immediately begin the process of selecting the next Longford Senior Football Team Manager.