Tipperary's Willie Maher releases statement after stepping down as Laois hurling manager

Willie Maher has stepped down as Laois senior hurling manager after two years in charge of the O'Moore County hurlers.

The former Tipperary All-Ireland winning minor player and manager was appointed to the role in 2022.

Maher led the Premier County to the 2012 All Ireland minor championship and guided Cuala to county success in 2019 and 2020.

Most recently he led Laois to the Joe MacDonagh Cup final where they were narrowly beaten by Offaly.

"After careful consideration, I have decided to step down from my position as manager," he said.

"This decision was not made lightly, but after much reflection, I believe it is the right time for me to step away at this point.

"I am proud of what we achieved together during my tenure and grateful for the dedication and hard work of the players, coaching staff, and supporters."

Maher led Laois to the Division 2A title this year, earning the right to play in Division 1 hurling in 2025.

"We were a puck of a ball away from a return to the Leinster Senior Championship," he added, referring to the close encounter against Offaly.

"The transition of seven new players into the McDonagh final team is testament to the quality of players coming through in Laois and I have no doubt that the team is set up for success with all players available in the county committing to our senior panel in 2024."