Gary McDaid was last night ratified as the new Donegal Under-20 manager by the Donegal county committee.
The Glenswilly man’s name was put forward by the selection committee and clubs gave their backing to his installation.
McDaid will be aided by 2012 Donegal All-Ireland winner Eamon McGee from Gaoth Dobhair, Termon’s Francie Friel and former Donegal star Brian Roper from Aodh Ruadh.
“It is a massive honour and a huge privilege,” McDaid – pictured above by Geraldine Diver – said.
McDaid and Shaun Paul Barrett, who has managed the Donegal minors for the last couple of years, were interviewed for the role with McDaid chosen to lead Tir Chonaill at this new grade.
“We have a strong team and not many players will escape us.
“It’s cut-throat and there are no second chances.
“We want a high performance environment and we will provide attention to detail in everything we do. We want to maximise everyone’s potential. We’ll put processes in place to help us to achieve our goals. Come the big day, we don’t want the players to sell themselves short.”
McDaid has a good working relationship with Declan Bonner, the Donegal senior manager, something he says is vital going forward.
McDaid said: “We have big expectations and plans for the group. May will be our D-day and it’s fantastic to have this opportunity.”
Listen to the full interview below …
https://soundcloud.com/donegalsportstalk/gary-mcdaid-after-being-appointed-donegal-u20-manager
