After ending his second tenure as Waterford’s senior hurling manager, Davy Fitzgerald has left the door open for a potential return to intercounty management. The former Déise manager chose not to extend his commitment into a third year with Waterford, ending his responsibilities after two seasons.
Contrary to potential assumptions, Fitzgerald has no plans to disappear into the backdrop of hurling fully. He confirmed his continued interest in the sport, though he also expressed his intention to enjoy a summer without managing obligations – a novelty he rarely enjoys.
Fitzgerald hinted at a comeback, emphasising that he remains open to future opportunities. He admitted that although the current circumstances are different, his love for the game remains, leaving prospects for future engagement ambiguous.
Citing the demands of long-distance travel between Clare (where he lives) and Waterford as a contributing factor in his decision to step back, Fitzgerald described his departure as partly necessitated by his personal life, especially with his two-year-old son, Dáithí Óg, needing his time and attention.
Fitzgerald emphasised the relief and personal time he now enjoys, no longer needing to devise training plans or confer with backstage officers. However, he did not dismiss the possibility of a return, suggesting that in a few weeks, circumstances might change and he could potentially find himself back in the thick of hurling management.
“So, I am consumed by this at the moment. I’m not dismissing the possibility that this may change in the near future, but as it stands, I mustn’t leave Waterford hanging on the possibilities of my decisions.”
Fitzgerald’s involvement with intercounty squads has been consistent since he first took over the Waterford hurlers midway through the 2008 season, a mere three months after his retirement as an intercounty player.
Fitzgerald filled the shoes of Justin McCarthy in June 2008 and directed Waterford to the All-Ireland final in September that year. He stayed on with the Déise until the termination of the 2011 championship, taking the reins of his home county Clare the next season. During his stint as the Banner’s manager, Fitzgerald steered Clare to both an All-Ireland victory and a National League crown.
In September 2016, he resigned but took over as Wexford senior hurling manager the following month. He held this position until July 2021, bagging a Leinster title in 2019 with the team.
In 2022, Fitzgerald took a less hands-on role, joining Matthew Twomey’s Cork camogie team as a coach. Still, Fitzgerald was back in the team manager role for 2023, accepting the charge of Waterford hurlers once again.
Fitzgerald stepping down has now opened an opportunity in Waterford, and often, a single departure can lead to a chain reaction in the managerial scenario.
There have been previous rumours linking Fitzgerald with Galway, but Henry Shefflin’s prolonged presence is still unconfirmed for 2025. Micheál Donoghue is anticipated to continue as Dublin’s manager, but there have also been murmurs about Fitzgerald being a good fit for the capital’s team.
When announcing Fitzgerald’s exit, the Waterford County Board noted: “During his reign, Davy guided the team with fervour and dedication. His strategic expertise and leadership essentials were key in molding the squad’s performance. All, players, the backroom staff, and supporters alike value his contributions.”
Following this, Waterford GAA chairman, Sean Micheal O’Regan, stated: “We heartily thank Davy for his relentless effort and commitment over the past two years. His influence on the squad has been noteworthy, and we send him our best wishes for his future pursuits.”
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