Ben O’Connor Set to Lead Cork Senior Hurling Team

Ben O’Connor is poised to be recommended as the new manager of the Cork senior hurling team. This development follows the resignation of Pat Ryan last Saturday, leaving O’Connor as the leading candidate for the role. The Cork County Board’s sub-committee, responsible for selecting a new manager, is expected to propose O’Connor’s appointment later today. If approved, this will be fully ratified during the Cork County Board meeting scheduled for next Tuesday night.

O’Connor’s credentials are impressive, stemming from a distinguished playing career with Cork. He played a pivotal role in securing three Liam MacCarthy Cups in 1999, 2004, and 2005, the latter year when he captained the team. His contributions on the field earned him All-Star awards in both 2005 and 2008. At the club level, O’Connor helped Newtownshandrum claim the All-Ireland senior title in 2004, alongside winning four Cork senior hurling championships and three Munster titles.

Transitioning to management, O’Connor’s record has also been noteworthy. He successfully guided the Cork U20 team to an All-Ireland title in 2023. His previous managerial roles include leading Cork clubs to success, notably with Midleton at the premier senior level in 2021 and Charleville at the premier intermediate level in 2019.

The imminent proposal of O’Connor as manager reflects a significant moment for Cork hurling, as the county seeks to build on its storied history in the sport. The outcome of the upcoming meeting will determine if he officially takes the reins, stepping into a role that carries both legacy and expectation. With his extensive experience both as a player and a coach, O’Connor is well-positioned to lead the team into a new era.