Cassidy resigns as Derry boss

Damian Cassidy has informed the Derry County Board that he will not be seeking a third year in charge of his native county.

Cassidy led the Oak Leafers to an NFL Division One final in 2009 but they failed to make any impact in the Ulster SFC during his two years at the helm.

This season saw Derry slip into the second-tier of league football, while Armagh ended their dreams of a first Ulster title since 1998 in the preliminary round.

Wins over Carlow and Westmeath in the All-Ireland Qualifiers were a welcome boost but when Kildare brought an end to their 2010 adventures with 11 points to spare – Cassidy was always likely to review his position.

“Damian and his management team have served this county with pride over the past two years, highlighted by leading our county to a National final in Croke Park in 2009,” said a statement from the Derry County Board.

“Derry County Board would like to commend Damian and his management team for the new initiatives they have introduced to the county set-up and credit them for the new players they have introduced to the panel.”

“Whilst we regret to be in this situation, we accept the decision of Damian and his management team, and wish them well in their future endeavours, and have no doubt they will go on to enjoy continued success in their managerial careers,” concluded the statement.