Pat leaves Clare role

LONG-SERVING Clare GAA secretary Pat Fitzgerald will step down from the role next month.

After 32 years in the role, Fitzgerald wrote to clubs on Wednesday to tell them he was leaving the position on July 18 - the day after the All-ireland hurling final.

The decision is somewhat of a surprise as there was still another year on Fitzgerald’s contract.

He wrote to clubs: “I am writing to inform you that after 32 years of service, it is my intention to step down from my role as Clare County Secretary.

“I am very proud of what we have achieved together over many long years, and I wish you every success into the future.”