Manley to step down as Cork senior camogie manager

Cork senior camogie manager Ger Manley has announced he is stepping down from the role after three years as manager and two as a selector/coach before that.

In his time as manager, he won two senior All-Ireland titles, a Munster championship and league title.

A statement issued by the County Board said: "Ger Manley has informed the executive of Cork Camogie that he will be stepping down as manager of the senior team. He thanked them for the opportunity afforded him and for all their help and assistance during his time in the role.

“He has enjoyed his time with the squad firstly as a selector under Matthew Twomey and then as manager in 2024, 2025 and 2026.

“However he thinks the time is right for a fresh voice as Cork go forward in 2027 to retain their All-Ireland title. He also thanks his fellow selectors and management teams as well as the players for their hard work, dedication and commitment. He said there are an incredible group, and he wishes them all the very best going forward.” 

Chairperson of Cork Camogie, Pádraig Treacy, expressed his disappointment that Ger had opted to step away but said that the board fully respect his decision. He said Ger has done a remarkable job during his term as manager, and we are very appreciative of his endeavours and his achievements.

'During his time as manager Cork won two All-Ireland titles and the National League, which Cork hadn't won in 13 years, and also a Munster championship. He recently also managed Ireland to back-to-back Shinty/Camogie series success. His efforts in 2026 in rebuilding the team after the loss of a number of players at the end of last season leaves the team in a very strong position.” 

The announcement brings an end to a hugely successful five-year involvement with the Rebels for Manley, who served as a selector under Matthew Twomey before taking over as manager ahead of the 2024 season.

Speaking after confirming his departure, Manley admitted the decision had not been an easy one but felt the timing was right to hand over the reins.

"Yeah, it was. I had a tough couple of weeks after the All-Ireland final and I don't have the energy. It's good to go after a win like that," he said.

"There's a few of the management team stepping down with me as well, but I think the time is right. We have a very good squad between the U23s and the seniors, so whoever goes in there is coming into a very good group.

"It is just the right time for me to go and give someone else the opportunity to manage a very good set of players."

Manley departs with an enviable record having led Cork to All-Ireland titles in 2024 and 2026, while also capturing National League and Munster Championship honours during his three years in charge.

Reflecting on that success, the Midleton man was quick to deflect praise towards his players and backroom team.

"I've been involved with other teams over the years where we won things and where we didn't, but consistency is the key," he said.

"We have quality players and that does make it easier. I can't say I've been the best manager and I can't say we're the best coaches, but I've been very lucky to work with some very good fellas.

"We had a very good record. We lost one championship match in three years and that's down to the players, the management and everybody involved.

"We had ups and downs this year and in previous years. We had a good cut off the league the year we won it. It comes down to attitude and what you put in. You'll get out of it what you put into it."

The outgoing manager reserved special praise for the commitment shown by Cork's players throughout his tenure.

"I have to give massive credit to the players over the years. They are outstanding and their commitment to Cork is unbelievable," he said.

Looking back after the 2026 campaign, Manley revealed discussions with his management team ultimately led him to the conclusion that their time had come to an end.

"I went through the matches over the last couple of weeks and talked to the lads. We just said, 'Look, we had a good innings'.

"But I might get back involved down the line, you never know."

Manley also used the opportunity to thank those who supported the Cork senior set-up during his five years involved with the county.

"I'd like to thank the County Board, the clubs, MTU, UCC and all those that gave us pitches over the years and for all the help they gave me," he said.

"I'd also like to thank Kearys for their sponsorship.

"And all the selectors and management teams I have worked with over the years. They all played a massive part in the success of Cork during my time involved."

With Manley stepping aside, attention will now turn to who succeeds one of the most successful managers in the county's recent camogie history.

Ger will be a tough act to follow but the Cork Camogie Board won't be short of applications for the job.

Within the current management set-up, the likes of Sean Crowley, James Nyhan and Gemma O'Connor are more than capable of stepping up, while Cork U23 manager Jerry Wallace is also likely to be among the contenders after guiding Rebel teams to both minor and U23 All-Ireland success in recent seasons.