Shane O'Brien has resigned as manager of the Westmeath hurlers. 

His departure comes less than a month after the Lake County secured a first ever Joe McDonagh Cup with a 2-28 to 1-24 victory over Kerry at Croke Park.

Dublin native O'Brien was appointed in late 2019, and helped Westmeath preserve their Division 1 status in the Allianz Hurling League last year.

However, five defeats from five saw them finish bottom of Division 1A this year, and they lost the subsequent relegation playoff to Laois.

"I would like to thank the incredible group of players that I was so blessed to have worked with over the last three years," O'Brien said.

"It was a journey that had too much excitement and fulfilling memories in challenging and unprecedented times.

"I am fully aware of how fortunate I was to have worked with such a fantastic team.

"The players have shown immense courage and passion in Division One over the last two years, which ultimately lead to Westmeath winning the much sought after Joe McDonagh Cup.

"I would like to thank the management and backroom team for their unwavering support and commitment and the clubs, supporters, Club Iarmhí and Westmeath County Board.

"Westmeath Hurling is in a very strong position and I look forward to seeing their continued development in the coming years."

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