Dunning steps down as Roscommon U20 manager
Roscommon are now seeking new football managers at both under-20 and minor level after Noel Dunning's decision to depart his role as U20 boss.
Roscommon GAA released a statement on Sunday last which said Dunning had informed the Roscommon GAA Executive that he is stepping down.
Dunning guided Roscommon to the Connacht U20 title earlier this year after an exciting provincial campaign that culminated in the Rossies defeating Galway in the final, with Bobby Nugent of St Brigid's the victorious captain.
A former manager of the London senior football team, Dunning has been involved with the St Aidan's club in Ballyforan for a number of years, having played at underage level with Athlone.
Having decided to step down, Dunning said: “I’d like to thank the county board for giving me the opportunity to manage the county U20 football team and the support that they gave us throughout.
"I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my two years in charge and I’d like to thank all of the members of my backroom team who worked so hard to coach and develop the players in our two years with them, culminating in a fantastic Connacht Championship win this year.
"No stone was left unturned when it came to preparing the players and the proof was in that tremendous win. However, that win was also down to the huge efforts of the players, anything we asked of them they totally committed to. It wasn’t easy in terms of travelling to training midweek from college and indeed from all over the county, but there was never a complaint and they thoroughly deserved their Connacht Championship title.
"It was a just reward for them and their parents whose contribution it would be remiss of me not to acknowledge. Each and every one of those players are a credit to their families, clubs and county," he continued.
Roscommon GAA has thanked Dunning and his backroom team for all their hard work over the last two years and wished them the very best in the future.
James Duignan had already indicated that he did not wish to be reconsidered for the position of manager of the Roscommon minor (U17) football team for 2025.
Former Garrycastle player Duignan has been involved with the Roscommon U17 team for the last four years, one as selector with Enda Nugent in 2021 and the last three years as manager.
Duignan led the team to this year’s Connacht final when they were defeated by Mayo. Roscommon were then knocked out of the All-Ireland championship by Kerry at the quarter-final stage.
Roscommon GAA also thanked Duignan and his backroom team for all their hard work over the last number of years and wished them the very best in the future.