EFFORTS to lure one of the most successful hurling coaches in the country out of retirement have failed. Kilkenny's Diarmuid Healy has rejected efforts by both his native county and Offaly to go back into management.

This week, Healy was nominated for the position as manager in Kilkenny, and in recent times soundings were made by Offaly officials to have him return to the hot seat there.

"I have made it clear to both counties that I am not interested in returning," Healy confirmed from his holiday destination in Kerry. Healy guided Offaly to All Ireland victories in 1981 and `85 and he managed Kilkenny when they won the National League in 1990.