Cork propose new U20 and minor hurling managers for 2027

Two members of Cork’s successful 1999 All-Ireland SHC-winning squad are set to take charge of the county’s U20 and minor sides in 2027.

The appointments sub-committee of Cork County Board have proposed Fergal McCormack of Mallow for the U20 role, with Kieran Morrison (St Catherine’s) set to lead the minor side. Both names will go before the next meeting of the board, which is due to take place on Tuesday, October 6, with unanimous approval expected.

McCormack was manager of the county minor side in 2025, guiding Cork to a first Munster title in four years. He has been given a two-year term, meaning that he will be working with many of the same players again.

As has been the pattern in recent times, Morrison graduates to minor level with the players that he has mentored through the development squad process since U14 level. However, there is a change in approach in that, while minor appointments have been on a one-year basis since 2021, there is the facility for Morrison to continue into 2028.

Such a shift occurred in football with the appointment of Keith Ricken as minor manager at the start of 2025 and continuity was rewarded as Cork won the All-Ireland this year. The St Vincent’s man was subsequently re-appointed for a third campaign.