Mickey Donnelly steps down as Derry Under 20 manager

The Aghaloo club man was appointed in November 2017 and guided the Oak Leaf Under 20s to two Ulster finals, winning the county's first title for more than 20 years at that age grade in 2018 when they overcame Armagh 2-15 to 0-14 in the Clones final.

Donnelly, who also took Tyrone minors to the 2012 Ulster Minor Championship title before losing out to Mayo in the 2013 All Ireland Final, was recently appointed manager of Ardboe, a club he led to the 2009 Tyrone senior club championship final.

"Derry GAA would like to sincerely thank Mickey Donnelly for his three years work as Derry U20 football manager," read a statement from the Derry Co. Board, "During this time Derry reached two Ulster finals, winning our first provincial title at the age grade since 1997.

"Mickey has played a central role in the development of our young players during this time, not just as players, but as young men who represent their families, clubs and county with respect and pride. He was a pleasure to work with at all times, a gentleman and a Gael from a proud family tradition. We wish Mickey, his wife Ciara and their family all the very best for the future. Go raibh milé maith agat."

Donnely's decorated CV also includes a couple of Down titles with Mayobridge, Mac Rory and Hogan Cup wins with St. Ronan's, Lurgan and two Ulster vocational schools titles with St. Paul’s JHS, Lurgan.