High Performance Manager Statement

Cork GAA is pleased to announce the appointment of Aidan O'Connell as our new High Performance Manager.

Aidan will be responsible for all high performance matters within Cork GAA and will partner with the CEO, Cork GAA staff and team managers in both hurling and football to develop and strengthen strategies relating to player development within the organisation. 

Aidan brings 17 years’ experience, successfully leading, managing and coaching various aspects of high performance delivery with Munster, Leinster and Irish Rugby including strength and conditioning, sports science, return to play, nutrition and lifestyle to elite team sports at youth, amateur, professional and international level. 

He also worked with the Cork Senior Footballers from 2008 to 2012 providing the support structure for physical development which coincided with the County’s last All Ireland at Senior level.

Aidan is the holder of a Bachelor of Science in Sports and Exercise Science (BSc) from University of Limerick and a Master of Science in Coaching Studies (MSc) from University of Edinburgh.

This announcement follows an appointment process overseen by secretary / CEO Kevin O'Donovan, along with Cian O'Neill of CIT, former Cork managers Brian Cuthbert and Kieran Kingston, and Doug Howlett, formerly of New Zealand and Munster Rugby.

Welcoming the appointment, County Chairperson Tracey Kennedy said "I am absolutely delighted that someone of the calibre and experience of Aidan O'Connell is joining the Cork GAA team. The position of High Performance Manager will be a vital one in ensuring that we maximise the achievement of our inter-county teams in an increasingly demanding and competitive environment, and Aidan brings a wealth of practical experience to this role, along with a strong GAA background. He has come through a rigorous interview process, and we are very lucky to have secured his services. On behalf of Cork County Board, I would like to warmly welcome Aidan to the team and wish him every success in this new role."

The position of High Performance Manager is part-funded by Cáirde Chorcaí, whose continued support is gratefully acknowledged by Cork County Board.