Donal O'Rourke is now part of Peter Queally's coaching staff for Waterford

Waterford Hurling Team Welcomes New Coach as Kelly Steps Down

In the world of Irish hurling, Waterford's senior team has undergone some significant changes. Peter Queally, the team's manager, has announced alterations to his backroom team, with a notable addition and a departure.

Eoin Kelly, a former Tipperary All-Ireland winning captain and a long-standing member of Waterford's senior hurling team setup, has provided invaluable continuity during the transition from Davy Fitzgerald to Queally. After three years of dedicated service as a selector, Kelly is stepping down and will be replaced by Donal O'Rourke.

O'Rourke, hailing from Cappoquin and a member of the Affane Cappoquin Tourin club, brings a wealth of coaching experience to Waterford. He was a key member of outgoing Cork manager Pat Ryan's backroom team and will now take up a coaching role in Queally's Waterford hurling team setup.

The coach who previously accompanied O'Rourke with the Cork GAA team is also joining Waterford's senior hurling team, adding to the team's coaching resources.

Waterford GAA chairperson Neil Moore has expressed gratitude to Eoin Kelly for his service to Waterford, praising his time and dedication to the team. Similarly, the organisation has expressed its appreciation to Kelly for his contributions, wishing him all the best in his future endeavours.

With these changes, the focus now shifts to the upcoming Waterford senior hurling final between champions Ballygunner and Mount Sion, set to take place on Sunday at 2.30pm. The anticipation for Donal O'Rourke's impact on the team is high, as he brings his extensive coaching experience to Waterford.

Meanwhile, Dublin's backroom team has received a boost with the addition of Stephen Cluxton for next year. The details of these changes and the impact they will have on the teams remain to be seen.

As for the GAA Central Council, no information was provided regarding a report on extending the All-Ireland season into August. The world of Irish hurling continues to evolve, with these changes in Waterford's senior hurling team being just one chapter in the ongoing story.