John Evans steps down as Roscommon football manager

John Evans has stepped down as Roscommon football manager after three years at the helm.

The Kerry native will not seek the nomination for the post for 2016 having served an initial two years and a one-year continuation in 2015.

Roscommon were knocked out of the Connacht SFC Championship by Sligo at the semi-final stage before losing a Round 3A qualifier against Fermanagh.

A statement from the Roscommon County Board read: “John Evans has informed Roscommon GAA of his intention not to seek reappointment to the position of Senior Football Team Manager for the 2016 season.

“During his three years in the charge John and his Management team brought Roscommon from Division Three to Division One of Allianz Football League, capturing two titles in the process and also led the team to the FBD Connacht League title earlier this year. They also played an important role in the development of the players and the integration of younger players into the panel.

“The Roscommon GAA Executive Committee, who had recommended John’s reappointment to the Clubs and County Board delegates, wish to sincerely thank John and his Backroom team for their hard work and dedication over the past three years and we wish them well for the future.

“The Committee will meet shortly to discuss the difficult task of appointing John’s successor.”

Evans also released statement through the county board, thanking people who have worked with him and his players.

It read: “It is with regret that I wish to withdraw my name from the Nomination of upcoming position of Roscommon Senior Football Manager for 2016. I agreed to a 2 year term initially, followed by a 1 year continuation. However, I do not wish to have my name put forward for a further year and I want to thank the executive committee for their vote of confidence in me.

"I wish to thank the Chairman Michael Fahey for his foresight and expertise, and all his officers for their untiring dedication, support, professionalism, and in particular County Secretary Brian Carroll, County Treasurer Joe Gilligan and County PRO Colm Beirne, who have worked so closely with the team management .

"To the team Selectors Gay Sheerin, Walty Burke, Basil Mannion, no better and true Roscommon men will you find anywhere – Real Rossies, who by their energy, commitment and enthusiasm have raised the bar so high – both on and off the field. To the specialised coaches and Medical staff of Keith, Liam, Niall, James, Aaron, Enda, Joe, Jamie, Gary, Ollie, Seamus, Paul, Nuala and especially Tommy Gilligan, who has been a tireless worker/Kitman for the team, and also the expertise of Dr. Harrison and Dr. Daly and all who have helped us over the past three years.

“Finally, to the wonderfully dedicated players who dared to go where others thought they should not tread, who have risen up and brought Roscommon galloping up from Division 3 straight through Division 2 and up to the top of the pile into Division 1 – all I can say I am immensely proud of you all – to a man, and I hope you stay focused on your bright futures ahead. Three trophies in 3 years, not bad for a start! I look forward to seeing you mix it with the best as “eventually” Roscommon will be the best.

Slán go Fóill,

John Evans