James McCarthy steps down as Castlehaven manager

2023 Premier SFC winners Castlehaven are on the hunt for a new manager after James McCarthy stepped down as boss after four seasons at the helm.

McCarthy guided the Haven to the top-flight football championship last year after a two-point win over Nemo Rangers in the final, which ended a ten-year drought for the Andy Scannell Cup. The West Cork side then claimed provincial silverware for the first time since 1997 after an incredible win on penalties over Dingle in the decider.

The season came to an end on Sunday, January 7, after a four-point defeat to St Brigid’s in the All-Ireland semi-final. McCarthy, who took over in his latest spell in charge from Mike O’Brien back in November 2019, mulled over his future and has now made his decision to move on.

The Haven were a model of consistency during McCarthy’s reign, reaching the 2020 final, losing to Nemo Rangers, and two semi-finals in 2021 and 2022, where they were beaten by St Finbarr’s on both occasions. 2023 would be different with the celebrations after the win over Nemo saying it all.

The team in blue and white have won the top-tier in Cork six times with McCarthy involved in some capacity on the sideline in three of those – 2003, 2012 and 2023.

The search for a replacement has started in earnest with the Haven opening their McCarthy Insurance Group Division 1 football league campaign on Saturday, March 2 at 1pm with a home encounter against Douglas.

The West Cork side have been drawn with familiar rivals Clonakilty and Carbery Rangers in the 2024 championship group stage as well as city outfit St Michael’s.