Antrim GAA announces Mark Doran as their new Senior Football Manager, succeeding Andy McEntee after a tough season.
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ANTRIM GAA has officially appointed Mark Doran as their new Senior Football Manager, stepping in to fill the shoes of Andy McEntee, who resigned after three seasons. With a solid background that includes coaching the Derry club Slaughtneil and various inter-county setups, Doran is set to lead Antrim into the upcoming campaign with a wealth of experience behind him.
Doran’s Background and Coaching Experience
Mark Doran isn’t just a name in the coaching world; he’s a former player for Down with a rich coaching resume. Currently at the helm of Slaughtneil, he’s also taken on management roles across several counties.
Just this past year, he was part of Davy Burke’s team for Roscommon and collaborated with Oisin McConville in Wicklow during the 2024 season. His club-level achievements are impressive too—leading Ballybay to a Monaghan county title in 2022 shows he knows how to develop talent and deliver results.
This diverse coaching background equips Doran with a profound understanding of the game. County officials believe this insight is crucial for propelling Antrim’s Senior Footballers to new heights. With a proven track record, he seems well-prepared to tackle the challenges that lie ahead.
Challenges Ahead for Antrim Football
The Antrim football team had a tough go during the 2025 season, ultimately facing relegation from the league. As they gear up for the upcoming season in Division Four, Doran’s primary goal will be to secure promotion back to a higher tier. This mission will demand not only tactical expertise but also a knack for inspiring and uniting the players. Can he rally the team to rise above the challenges?
“Mark has built a solid reputation as a coach and manager,” said Seamus McMullan, Chairperson of the Antrim County Committee, commenting on Doran’s new role. “His depth of experience and understanding of the modern game make him an ideal fit to lead our Senior Footballers forward.” This endorsement underscores the faith and expectations the committee has placed in Doran as he embarks on this significant journey.
Looking Forward to the 2026 Season
As the countdown to the 2026 season begins, Doran’s management team is yet to be announced. However, it’s anticipated that his selections will mirror his coaching philosophy and vision for the squad. The upcoming months will be pivotal as the team begins training and crafting strategies for the future. What strategies will Doran implement to bring Antrim back to competitive form?
With the County Committee backing him and a clear determination to return to form, Doran’s leadership will be under close scrutiny from fans and analysts alike. The road ahead is bound to be challenging, but with a focused goal of promotion, Antrim GAA is gearing up for a transformative season under Doran’s guidance. Are you ready to see how this unfolds?
