GAA world lays into Mayo for handling of manager’s departure
Mayo GAA released a statement yesterday, ‘relieving’ manager Kevin McStay and his management team of their duties.
However, they have come in for criticism given the nature of the announcement, which you can read at the bottom of the article, that many felt was insensitive.
McStay had to take a break from his role after being hospitalised before Mayo’s round-robin clash with Tyrone, with assistant Stephen Rochford stepping in as interim-boss.
McStay, who played for Mayo during the 1980s, took over as manager in 2022 on a four-year deal.
During his three years, the county were knocked out in the All-Ireland quarter-finals, the preliminary quarter-finals, and this year, the round-robin group stage.
They also reached the final of the Connacht SFC in 2024 and 2025.
Ah Mayo GAA never cease to amaze the good people. Kevin & his backroom deserved better than that 💩 statement 🤯🤯🤯
— Lee Keegan (@leeroykeegan) June 25, 2025
Should you ever want to know what an absence of class looks like.'Relieved of their roles'Sweet Christ.Kevin McStay has given a great chunk of a lifetime as a footballer and manager to Mayo.His health suffered.
And somebody sanctioned this statement. https://t.co/WQC4l3KtMS
Absolutely no class from Mayo GAA. Totally insensitive to Kevin McStay who served the county since he was a teenager.I wonder if #Mayo sponsors stand over the tone and language used in dumping a group,who admittedly failed to win an All-Ireland – like every predecessor since 1951 pic.twitter.com/9Y9y9ZQ15N
— Des Cahill (@sportsdes) June 25, 2025
What a horrible disgusting way to treat a really good classy guy like Kevin Mc Stay …no game until next February & to do this to a gentleman who has been unwell & one who has served his County with distinction @MayoGAAIs just SHAMEFUL https://t.co/i86Wef84Oa
— Bernard Flynn (@bernardflynn15) June 25, 2025
It might not have worked out for Kevin McStay, but the man’s health was compromised because of his commitment to the role. There is a duty of care on the board to treat all employees with dignity and respect. And have empathy and class when bidding farewell. @MayoGAA
— Declan Varley (@declanvarley) June 25, 2025
Kevin McStay is one of the most decent, honourable Mayo GAA man you will ever meet. His analysis of Mayo football over the years has always been sharp and measured. He could have stayed on the sidelines but bravely entered the arena. He has done his county some service.
— Edwin McGreal (@edmcgreal) June 25, 2025
The full statement from Mayo GAA reads: “A Coiste Bainistíocht Meeting of Mayo GAA was held in Hastings Insurance MacHale Park this evening, Wednesday 25th of June.
“At this meeting a decision was made to relieve Kevin McStay and his management team from their roles with the Mayo Senior Football Team with immediate effect.
“We would like to sincerely thank Kevin and his management team for their time, effort, and commitment to the Mayo Senior Football Team during their tenure. Their dedication to the players and the jersey has been greatly appreciated by all involved with Mayo GAA.
“We wish Kevin and his management team every success in the future, both on and off the field.
“An update regarding the future management of the Senior Football Team will be provided in due course.”
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