Larry Reilly named as new Cavan U20 manager

GAA news

Knockbride’s Larry Reilly has been confirmed as the new manager of the Cavan U20 footballers.

Cavan county board confirmed last night that the former county star, regarded as one of the best Cavan forwards of the last 25 years, would take the reins.

Reilly was one of four candidates nominated by the clubs last week, alongside Brian Donohoe, Donal Keogan and Keelan Melaniff. Keogan, who was nominated by home club Denn, withdrew from the process citing a lack of time to put in place a potential backroom team; the remaining three candidates were interviewed on Monday night and the decision was announced following a meeting of the county board executive last night (Tuesday).

Reilly’s management team includes coach Andy McGovern and selectors Kevin McDonnell (Ramor United) and Declan Farrell (Templeport) as well as Danny Brady (Mullahoran).

Reilly was previously a part of the Cavan minor management alongside Brady, leading them to the Ulster final.

One candidate stated off the record that the interview process was “thorough and professional, well organised”. The interview panel consisted of county chairman Kieran Callaghan, Head of Operations Martin Cahill, vice-chairman Mark O’Rourke, former Cavan senior team captain Alan Clarke (Kingscourt) and former U20 manager and current Youth Board chairman Niall Lynch (Cuchulainns).

Reilly takes over from Damien Donohoe, who managed the team from 2021-23.