MICHAEL McShane has stepped down as Slaughtneil’s hurling manager after nine years in charge, having won four Ulster titles.
No Derry club had ever won the provincial hurling title before the Emmet’s managed it under McShane in 2016, beating Loughgiel in a gripping final.
They went on to lift the trophy a further three times in the next four seasons - 2017, 2019 and 2021 (there was no 2020 championship) - and won all nine Derry hurling titles during his time, continuing a run of 11 consecutive county successes, the first two of which were under Mickey Glover.
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Their big near-miss in terms of an All-Ireland semi-final was when they pushed Ballyhale to the pin of their collars in early 2021, falling agonisingly short in an epic tie in Newry.
Cuala (2016/17), Na Piarsaigh (2017/18) and Ballygunner (2021/22) also got the better of them in All-Ireland semi-finals during that time.
Having lost their Ulster title to Dunloy last year, they were fancied to win it back nine days ago but were deservedly beaten by Cushendall, who face new Kilkenny and Leinster champions O’Loughlin Gaels this weekend.
“CLG Roibeard Eiméid, Sleacht Néill would like to thank Michael McShane who has decided to stand down after a hugely successful 9 years in charge of our senior hurlers. To the entire management team of Michael, Nander, Noel, Barney, Ricky, Padraig, Dermot, Gareth, Gerry and Bernard we offer our sincere thanks,” read a statement from the club.