Mike Quirke has stepped down from his role as Laois Senior Football Manager with immediate effect, following his side's heavy loss to Westmeath on Sunday.
After their 3-20 to 1-20 loss to Westmeath on Sunday, Quirke had admitted that Sunday's 3-20 to 1-10 defeat to Westmeath was "horrendous" and "pathetic" at times in the second half, expressing his disappointment with his side's performance.
The announcement was made via the Laois GAA Twitter account, confirming that the former Kerry footballer had brought an end to his two-year stint in charge.
Laois had been relegated in this year's Allianz Football League campaign after losing a play-off to Down, after losing four of their league matches this season.
Laois manager Mike Quirke during the Allianz Football League Division 2 South Round 2 match between Laois and Cork at MW Hire O'Moore Park in Portlaoise, Laois. Photo by Seb Daly/SportsfileIn the statement released by Laois GAA on Monday, Quirked thanked the county for their support and trust in him over his 'difficult slog' as manager.
"I'd like to express my sincere appreciation to all players, management and backroom team for their unwavering effort over the past two Covid ravaged inter-county seasons," Quirke said. "It's been a difficult slog at times, but made far more enjoyable by the quality of the people involved.
"The players have shown fantastic commitment towards representing their county in the best possible way through very challenging circumstances and despite not getting the performances or results we craved this season, they can be proud of the effort and application they've shown throughout.
"I'd made my decision at this stage to allow the county board ample time to find new management in advance of county championship action resuming in the county in the coming weeks and months."
Laois followed included in the statement from Quirke a word of thanks to the Kerryman, stating that he is a 'gentleman to the core and has given everything for the cause', and wished him and his family well in the future.
— Laois GAA (@CLGLaois) July 5, 2021
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