BACK-to-back league winners Rathmullan Celtic are coming to terms with the decision of their joint manager Dessie McLaughlin to step down from his role.
The club reluctantly accepted ‘Rocker’s’ resignation at a committee meeting this week.
In a statement the club heaped praise on McLaughlin for his incredible success – the club lost just two leagues games on their way to two titles.
The club said: “Dessie informed the committee that he did not feel he was in a position to offer the commitment he requires of himself for the season ahead, owing to family and personal commitments. Under those circumstances, he felt he could not take the role on and so he offered his resignation which was accepted.
“With our AGM upcoming on July 18th, Mark Curran remains in charge of team affairs. Mark has expressed his desire to recruit a resource to help fill the void left by Dessie.
“On behalf of Mark Curran, the players, committee, our dedicated supporters who have followed Rathmullan over the past two seasons as well as anyone who has had the pleasure of being around to see history being made, we want to place on record our sincere gratitude to Rocker for everything that he put into making the success happen.
“Since forming his managerial partnership with Mush, Rocker has brought a level of professionalism, dedication and discipline to Rathmullan that was never witnessed before.
“Together with Mush and the players, Rocker has been part of a club that has brought untold pride to many people who hold Rathmullan close to their hearts.
“This time two years ago, Rocker and Mush agreed to become joint mangers on their own terms, demanding that the committee of the club backed them and supported them in their work. In return they have brought back to back league titles to the Flagpole field. A feat nobody could have predicted when they took over.
“Throughout the title winning campaigns in the CT Ball Division 2 and the Milford Inn Division 1, the team lost just two games, one per season. A remarkable achievement at any level.
“Winning a first league title in Kerrykeel in April 2011 was a momentous day for football people in Rathmullan and sparked celebrations befitting of the occasion. To repeat the feat by downing St Catherines a year later in glorious sunshine in front of a bumper crowd in Rathmullan surpassed all expectations. Save for those of a remarkable management team.
“In May of this year, the Rathmullan gaffers were recognized for their achievements with a joint Donegal League Manager of the Year award.
“Rocker leaves his position with the club in a stronger position, both on and off the field, than ever before. We have the exciting prospect of top tier football for the first time on the New Flagpole, and we have a talented young team equipped to deal with the challenge, thanks in no small part to the tricks of the trade they have learned over the last 24 months from a master in the craft.
“The new season is just five weeks away and the preparations are underway despite what is a setback for everyone. We look forward to another rollercoaster ride around the pitches of Donegal this winter.”