Justin Campbell has announced his intention to step down as manager of the Roscommon senior hurling team. The decision came earlier this week but Campbell had indicated that he was considering leaving the role as far back as last October.
Roscommon hurling chairman, Christy McDermott, stated on Tuesday: “Justin Campbell informed me last night of his intention to stand down as manager of the Roscommon senior hurling team. This is very disappointing news but we must respect his decision. We are all aware of Justin’s involvements outside of the playing of our games. He is very busy as an addiction counsellor and feels that he can’t manage the two jobs at the moment. It is a big worry that his addiction work is so busy and I suppose, without being selfish, we have to compliment Justin on his dedication to this work which helps his clients and their families.
“When we reviewed work for 2016 last October, Justin indicated that it might be his last year for that reason and requested that he be relieved of preparing the county U-21 team in 2016.
“Roscommon hurling has enjoyed three great years under the leadership of Justin. In 2014, we reached the Nicky Rackard Cup final. 2015 saw us win the Nicky Rackard Cup and narrowly miss out on promotion from Division 3A of the Allianz National League.
“The goals for 2016 were achieved in the team was promoted to Division 2B of the league and easily held onto our status in the Christy Ring Cup.
“Justin has been a pleasure to work with and put all of his energy into Roscommon hurling and I would like to thank his backroom team and players for the dedication they have given Justin. Finally, thanks to Justin, his wife and their two young children.”
Campbell has guided the Roscommon hurlers through a very successful three-year period and raised the profile of Roscommon hurling across the county and beyond. The hurling board will now face the tough task of finding a worthy successor.
