Ladies on lookout for new boss as McHale steps down

Liam McHale has stepped down as manager of the Mayo ladies senior football team. The announcement has come following the team's successful retention of their senior championship with a victory over Leitrim in Saturday's relegation playoff. A sporting icon in the county, McHale spent two years at the helm.

The 2025 season presented significant challenges for Mayo, with the team finishing bottom of the National Football League and suffering relegation to Division 2 in what was a season of huge transition for Mayo ladies football. McHale faced unprecedented squad changes with significant player departures, however, there has been great young talent emerging.

"We are immensely proud of the young players who stepped up, made their debuts, and showed tremendous character throughout the campaign," said Mayo LGFA in a statement issued on Saturday afternoon, adding: "Captain Danielle Caldwell deserves special mention for her leadership during a challenging period of considerable change.

"The commitment required at senior inter-county level is immense - not just from players, managers, coaches, and the extended managerial team, but from their families too. We are grateful to Liam and his entire backroom team for their dedication to Mayo Ladies Football."

Mayo LGFA said that the retention of senior status will provide a strong foundation for continued development. 

"The experience gained by younger players this season, combined with the emergence of new talent, positions the county well for the years ahead. We give our heartfelt thanks to all Mayo supporters for their loyalty during a difficult season and look forward to building on today's success together.

"Mayo LGFA extends its sincere gratitude to Liam McHale for his service to LGFA over the past two years, his lifetime of service to the County Mayo, and we wish him every success in his future endeavours."