Greville takes charge of the Royal County hurlers
Westmeath man given three-season term
After a lengthy process to find a new manager for the Meath senior hurling team the Co Committee have announced today that Johnny Greville will be the man in charge for the forseeable future.
He will be assisted by Sean Corrigan from the Kildalkey club and Tom Shine, Kilskrye/Moylagh.
Greville who is from Raharney, has been given a three-year term. He certainly knows the Meath hurling landscape well having previously taken charge of Kildalkey.
He described his appointment as Meath manager as "a great opportunity" however the Royals were relegated from Div 2A and the Joe McDonagh Cup last season; that reality a measure of the challenge facing the new man at the helm.
Greville led Kildalkey to the 2017 SHC final where they were defeated by Kiltale. It was only one role in a very varied career in management he has experienced over the years, even though he is stilly only in his mid-forties.
He guided Raharney to Westmeath SHC titles in 2010, 2014 and 2016. They were also beaten finalists in 2012 and 2015. His CV also includes a list of titles he helped Raharney win at minor and u-21 levels.
Further evidence of his ability to get the best out of a bunch of players can be seen in the way he managed Westmeath team to a victory over Wexford (2-11 to 0-15) in Wexford Park in the Leinster MHC in 2015, in what was a real shock.
As a player he wore the blue of Raharney in two victorious county deciders, one as captain in 2006 with the other achieved in 2008. He also represented Westmeath in hurling at all levels, his last appearance in the maroon in 2004.
He also had a very successful spell as manager of the Westmeath camogie team and enjoyed memorable days with them including success in the All-Ireland Premier Junior final in 2017 when they defeated Dublin before they claimed the All-Ireland Intermediate title in 2019. It was a remarkable run of success.
He also managed the Faughs senior hurling team in Dublin.
Greville replaces Steven Clynch at the helm. Clynch stepped in as temporary manager after Seoirse Bulfin resigned in March citing "personal reasons." The Limerick man led the Royals to Christy Ring Cup and league success in 2023.
Ironically Bulfin has since taken charge of Westmeath hurlers.
Clynch, one of the finest players ever to wear the green and gold, took over the reins in the summer when some calm and leadership was badly needed.
However, Meath were relegated from the McDonagh Cup after a string of defeats. The fall through the trap door was confirmed after an 18-point defeat to Westmeath in Mullingar in May.
Now Greville, a well-respected hurling man from the Lake County, has been given the responsibility of leading the Royals into a new era.
The Co Committee statement reads:
"Meath GAA is delighted to confirm the appointment of Johnny Greville, from Raharney GAA Club in Westmeath, as the new senior hurling team manager.
"This will be formally approved at the next County Committee meeting.
"Johnny has committed to leading the senior hurling team for the next three years, beginning with the upcoming season.
"Johnny Greville brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the role, having successfully managed teams at various levels and demonstrated his commitment to the development of hurling. Meath GAA is confident that his leadership will help drive the team to future success.
"Johnny will be supported by an accomplished management team, including Seán Corrigan of Kildalkey and Tom Shine from Kilskyre/Moylagh, who will serve as selectors. Together, they bring a strong blend of expertise and passion. Seán will remain the County U-20 manager and this link is part of our strategic vision to improve Meath hurling.
"Meath GAA Chairperson Jason Plunkett expressed his gratitude to those involved in the interview process, stating: “I would like to thank the interview committee, chaired by Cian Royston, and including John Brennan, Ciarán Flynn, and Gene Smith, for their hard work and dedication in selecting a manager of Johnny’s calibre. We are excited for the future of Meath hurling under Johnny’s leadership.”
"John Brennan, Chairperson of the Meath GAA Hurling Development Committee, also shared his enthusiasm for the appointment: “It’s great to have someone like Johnny on board. His knowledge of the game and passion for its development are exactly what Meath hurling needs at this point. We look forward to working with him to achieve our goals.”
"Johnny Greville himself expressed his excitement about the role: 'I am honoured to take on the role of Meath Senior Hurling Team Manager. It’s a great opportunity to work with a talented group of players and an exciting management team. I’m looking forward to getting started and working hard to bring success to Meath hurling in the years to come.'
"We are excited about this new chapter for Meath GAA hurling and look forward to the progress the team will make under Johnny’s management. Meath GAA would like to thank all involved in the selection process and wish Johnny and his team the very best of luck in the seasons ahead."