Newly promoted Crettyard have appointed a new manager ahead of the 2025 season.
After three years in charge, Ballyroan-Abbey’s Noel Delaney has departed the role.
And he has been replaced by former player John Murphy – who managed the Kilkenny Ladies this year.
Under Delaney, Crettyard ended their stay in the second tier of club football in Laois.
In 2022, Delaney’s first year, they lost the Laois IFC semi final against Arles-Kilcruise.
They went a step further in 2023 as they reached the final but found Ballylinan a tough nut to craic.
But they returned to the final in September and defeated Mountmellick to return to senior for the first time since their 2019 relegation.
John Murphy has been heavily involved in various teams over the years – including being a selector with the Laois Ladies under Donie Brennan when they claimed All-Ireland glory in 2022.
A spokesperson for Crettyard said: “Santa has come early as Crettyard CLG are proud to announce club man John Murphy as Manager of our mens senior team 2025.
“John has been committed to the club from childhood and its wonderful to see one of our own looking after our Senior men this coming year.
“We wish John and the team every success in the 2025 season ahead.”
Meanwhile, a number of other Laois GAA clubs have reappointed their managers for 2025.
County champions Portarlington have retained the services of Pat Roe for a second season.
While St Joseph’s, champions in 2023, will be managed by Mick Dempsey for a sixth season in 2025.
Ballyroan-Abbey will be managed by Martin Murphy for a second season while the Offaly duo of Jimmy Stewart and Keith Begley are staying in Emo.
Neville Dunne is remaining with Rosenallis but one club who is looking for a new manager is Graiguecullen who have confirmed the departure of Kevin Doogue.
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