BREAKING NEWS: Greville steps down as Meath hurling manager

Meath senior hurling manager Johnny Greville has stepped down from his position after two years in charge.

The Raharney man took over from Seoirse Bulfin in September 2024 after Meath were relegated from the Joe McDonagh Cup.

After a disappointing Ring Cup campaign that saw Meath finish fifth of the six teams on four points following wins over relegated Tyrone and eventual finalists Derry, Greville revamped the Meath squad for the 2026 campaign with several senior players either stepping away or cut to make way for younger players.

Meath's bid to retained their Div 2 status in NHL this year, but their draw with Derry in Trim ultimately proved costly in their bid to reach the Christy Ring Cup.

It was expected that Greville would continue in the role, so this afternoon's news is something of a surprise with the Westmeath man citing 'family life and personal wellbeing' as significant factors in his decision to step down.

Greville's statement reads:

"After careful reflection, I have decided to step down as Manager of the Meath Senior Hurling Team.

"It has been a tremendous honour to manage Meath and to work with such an outstanding group of players and a dedicated backroom team. Everyone involved gave their all in representing the county with pride, and I will always be grateful for that commitment.

"Inter-county management is a privilege, but it demands a significant commitment that extends far beyond training and match days. Over time, those demands have an impact on family life and personal wellbeing. I believe now is the right time to step away and give greater priority to my family, health and wellbeing.

"I would like to sincerely thank all involved in the Meath County Board & Hurling Committee for their trust and support. In particular, I want to acknowledge Jason Plunkett for his professionalism and commitment to the development of Meath Hurling.

"To the players, thank you for your honesty, resilience and dedication. It has been a privilege to share this journey with you, and I have every confidence that the experiences gained will serve you well in the years ahead.

"I also want to thank my management and backroom team for their expertise, commitment and countless hours of work. Their support was central to everything we tried to achieve.

To the clubs, volunteers and supporters, thank you for your encouragement and respect throughout my time in the role.

"Finally, thank you to my family for their patience, understanding and unwavering support. Without them, this opportunity would not have been possible.

"I leave with great pride in what we worked towards together and every confidence that Meath Hurling will continue to progress. I wish the players and everyone involved every success in the future.

Thank you."

In a response from Meath Co Board secretary Ciaran Flynn they thanked Greville for his wholehearted commitment and wished him good health for the future.

"On behalf of Meath GAA, I would like to sincerely thank Johnny for his commitment, professionalism, and dedicated service during his tenure. Managing an inter-county team requires an enormous commitment of time and energy, and Johnny has given that commitment wholeheartedly in the service of Meath GAA," said Flynn in his statement.

"We are grateful for the work he has undertaken with our players, management team, clubs, and supporters, and for his contribution to the continued development of hurling within the county.

"We fully respect Johnny's decision to prioritise his family, health, and wellbeing, and we wish him and his family every happiness, good health, and success in the future."

The search will begin immediately to appoint a replacement with the third round of the hurling championships scheduled to take place on the weekend 15th August.