Karl Lacey departs Kilcoo after two-years in charge of Down champions
Down champions Kilcoo are on the hunt for a new manager after the departure of Karl Lacey.
The former Donegal star joined the Magpies ahead of the 2023 season and has helped them retain their firm grip on the Frank O’Hare Cup
October’s facile win over Burren was their sixth successive Down SFC title and their 12th in 13 seasons.
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However, they failed to regain the Seamus McFerran Cup under Lacey’s tenure. Having suffered a last-gasp defeat to Scotstown in 2023, Kilcoo reached the final of this season’s Ulster Club SFC, claiming a resounding victory over An Bhoth in the semi-final.
Yet, they were denied a third Ulster title after Peter Óg McCartan landed a stunning winner for Errigal Ciaran in December’s provincial final in Armagh.
Former Derry manager Paddy Crozier was involved with Lacey’s backroom in 2024, although it remains to be seen if he’ll still be involved with the Down champions going forward.
Lacey had cast doubt on his own future following Kilcoo's exit to Scotstown last season, stating: "There’s friendships and relationships built there for life. It will always be a club that’s close to my heart now in terms of the way they’ve welcomed me in."
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