'Incredibly proud' Mark Tumilty exits Ireland men's role to 'take a break from international coaching'
Mark Tumilty will leave his role as Hockey Ireland men’s senior head coach “incredibly proud" following seven years that included the 2024 Paris Olympics.
"Coaching Ireland has been a tremendous honour and something I've been incredibly proud to do,” said Tumilty. “After a significant period of commitment to the programme, I feel this is the right time for me to step back and take a break from international coaching.
"I'd like to thank the players, coaching and support staff, Hockey Ireland and everyone who has supported the team during my time in the role. I wish the squad and the wider programme every success as they move forward."
Tumilty’s call to step down has been supported by officials, with a statement confirming “Mark has made the personal decision to take a break from the demands of international coaching following a significant period of commitment to the programme” and “Hockey Ireland respects his decision and wishes to express its sincere appreciation for his leadership, dedication and contribution to the development of the senior men's team”.
Hockey Ireland have announced that current assistant Neville Rothman will take on the role of interim head coach “ensuring continuity for the squad and wider high-performance programme during the transition” given how his “familiarity with the players, coaching structures and programme will provide valuable stability”.
Officials aim to complete a permanent head coach recruitment by December.