Aidan O'Rourke

It's Official! we've got a new manager and finally we can begin to look forward to 2013 now with some optimism at least.


If the Draw last week was the appetizer, the appointment was the mains so the proof in the pudding will come next through trials and challenge matches in the coming weeks.


So, What we do know about Him?

Currently Queens Sigerson Cup Manager

Previously Down assistant and Kildare Selector

Finished playing for Armagh as recently as 2009
 
What we Hope he will bring...


The same High Standards he was familiar with during his Armagh days.


Professional like preparation in all area's to improve players in all area's


Organisation be it on the field or off it, the set up is badly lacking some order to proceedings.


Tactic's yes, even a simple thing like tactic's we have been starved of in recent seasons, A game-plan or method of playing will go along way.


Up to date Methods, Modern Day experience, the game has evolved greatly in the past 2 seasons even. Aidan O'Rourke was the most current manager available bar Jason Ryan, He has seen it first hand last year with Down and Kildare how exactly and what way the game is going and hopefully how to get lads to play at that level.


Enthusiasm, in his first major role there should be no shortage of it


Belief, to the county and especially to the players he is working with. He obviously thinks he can win things with us as he seen as a progressive manager and wouldn't be keen on wasting his time.




What the possible Risks are...


First major Role and he might find inter county management a little overwhelming and out of his depth, after all, being a good assistant does not automatically make you a good manager. He might find the spotlight a little too much if the going gets tough.


Poor back-room team, the calibre of people around him will tell how far he will go and how persuasive he is for a start! The modern game depends greatly on who the physical trainer is, we've seen the impact and plaudits Cian O'Neill has gotten for his work with Mayo and Tipperary hurlers so, if he can recruit



His Lack of Knowledge of Louth football although not crucial could become detrimental to what his vision is, if there is a player out there he could use but doesn't know he even exists, then there could be an issue but I'm sure he has been educating himself and will leave no stone unturned.


 
Final thoughts


I, for one is very excited at the appointment I think it is a move in the right direction, We have a good panel of players crying out for a dynamic manager. 

They needed someone to demand their respect and someone they can commit to.


He is an all-Ireland winner, coming from outside the county so he already has gains initial respect for what he did and for the sacrifice he is doing.


How much respect he gains or loses from this point onwards will decide, how successful he will be.


But so far so good and that's all you can ask for.....


well done County Board & Best of Luck Aidan