No Turning Back! — Oisin McConville Secured For 2027 In Massive Wicklow Boost

The Armagh all-Ireland winner who guided the Garden County to Tailteann Cup glory this season, guaranteeing Wicklow Sam Maguire football in 2027 is back at the helm after confirmation from Wicklow GAA

Oisín McConville will remain on as Wicklow senior football manager for the 2027 season, Wicklow county board officials have confirmed. 

The Crossmaglen native’s continuation was announced yesterday with the county board stating his appointment “will be ratified at the next county board meeting” following this summer’s dramatic Tailteann Cup success at Croke Park over Down.

Wicklow produced one of the most remarkable comebacks of this or any other season season to lift the Tailteann Cup, overturning a 13-point deficit against the Mourne County in the second half to win 1-21 to 2-16 in front of delirious Garden fans. 

That victory not only delivered the Garden County’s first Tailteann Cup title but also secured their place in the 2027 Sam Maguire Cup series, regardless of league position

“It’s not just my decision,” McConville said after the final, pointing to the heavy travel demands and time away from family as key factors in weighing up his future.

Wicklow Football Manager Oisin McConville - @Score_Beo via X

Five years in charge, first inter-county role

First appointed ahead of the 2023 season, next year will be McConville’s fifth season at the helm.

In his first season he led the Garden County to promotion to Division 3, while the team has since narrowly missed out on further promotion in each of the last two campaigns. This remains his first inter-county managerial post.

He had been linked with other vacancies, including Monaghan after Gabriel Bannigan’s departure, before confirming he would see out the second year of a two-year extension agreed in 2025.

What’s next for Wicklow football?

With the main man Oisin McConville in place, Wicklow’s immediate targets are clear:

• Push for promotion from Division 4 in the National League and to address that related disapointment from earlier this year. 

• Make their mark in the 2027 Sam Maguire series

• Build on the momentum and belief from the Tailteann Cup triumph

Oisin McConville’s decision ends any uncertainty given the personal and family demands of the role.

His commitment is being seen locally as a major boost for Wicklow football as the county prepares to compete again among the Sam Maguire teams.