New eras in Mayo football as Moran and O'Hora take up management roles

There was white smoke swirling through the skies either side of Castlebar last night with the ratification of the Mayo Senior Men’s and Ladies managers for the 2026 season.

The chimneys were billowing at both MacHale Park and the TF Royal Hotel & Theatre as the County Board and LGFA County Board held meetings at these venues respectively to ratify the appointments of Andy Moran, who takes charge of the Men’s Senior team replacing Kevin McStay and Diane O’Hora who takes charge of the Ladies Senior team replacing Liam McHale.

Both Moran and O’Hora come into their respective roles as distinguished former county players. Moran, a native of Ballaghaderreen, won eight Connacht titles with Mayo as a player and played in six All-Ireland Finals, representing the county 150 times between league and championship. He is joined, initially, in his backroom team by his former Mayo teammate Colm Boyle and former Derry manager Paddy Tally.

Speaking following his appointment, Moran said he was honoured to be appointed.

“This is a proud moment for me, my family, and my club Ballaghaderreen, and I am grateful for the trust placed in me to lead this team,” he said.

“Together with my management team, I will work with dedication to provide the right environment, supports, and structures to help our players perform to the best of their ability”.

O’Hora is one of the Mayo Ladies most decorated players having won three All-Ireland titles and is a former All-Star. She previously managed Roscommon and Kildare.

Welcoming the appointment, Mayo LGFA Chairperson Sinéad Stagg said they were delighted to have secured Diane’s appointment.

“We are thrilled to confirm Diane as our new senior manager. Diane’s deep knowledge of the game, her experience at the highest level, and her lifelong commitment to Mayo football make her an outstanding choice to lead our senior ladies team.”