Legendary Cork centre-back Curran takes the helm at the Barrs

RONAN Curran is the new manager of the St Finbarr’s senior hurling team.

His appointment was ratified at the club’s AGM on Tuesday night and it will be the former Cork star’s first venture into management at this level.

Although they found themselves in the relegation series this season after losing two championship games, the Togher side will be cautiously optimistic going into the new season after being paired with Newcestown in the first round of the 2018 SHC.

They were desperately unlucky to lose to the Glen this season with the Blackpool side depending on a last-gasp goal to secure the victory over them.

Curran’s involvement is sure to generate a lot of enthusiasm into the set-up that contains some very good, young hurlers.

On the administrative side, that great club servant, Tony Maher continues as secretary for another season.

Meanwhile, Cork football goalkeeper, Ken O’Halloran has decided to retire from inter-county duties.

He won an All-Ireland U21 medal in 2007 and was the substitute keeper in 2010 when Cork lifted the Sam Maguire Cup.

He won three national league titles and was a Sigerson Cup winner with UCC.

Meanwhile, Tracey Kennedy is now the only female county chairperson in the country after Roisin Jordan was defeated in a three-way contest in Tyrone last night three years into her five-year term.