Gavigan and Devaney take over at MacCumhaills

By Michael McMullan

DONEGAL side Seán Mac Cumhaills have appointed Luke Gavigan Snr and Damian Devaney as their new management for 2026.

They take over from Gary Wilson to stepped down after last season, following three years at the helm, the last two of them as manager.

Gavigan has previously been involved alongside Wilson with the club’s u-21 team. Devaney comes on board having spent as seasons as Ardara manager.

MacCumhaills were beaten this season by St Michael’s in the quarter-final of the senior championship. They were beaten by Gaoth Dohair in the 2023 semi-final and in the quarter-final last year.

They were last in a final in 2004 with the last of their six titles coming in 1977.

“Luke is a former Ardara and Donegal player who has significant coaching experience within the club,” read a club statement.

“Over the years, he has coached many of the current MacCumhaills senior players, guiding them from the age of eight right through to u-21 level.

“Damian returns to MacCumhaills having previously managed the senior team in 2017. He went on to manage the Donegal Senior Ladies for two seasons before taking charge of the Ardara Senior team, where he has spent the past six years.

“A former MacCumhaills player himself, Damian has also played a major role in developing many of the current senior panel through his underage coaching. Both Luke and Damian are looking forward to the season ahead and the challenge it brings.

“With the support of the club, community, and sponsors, they hope to foster an environment where every player feels valued and given the opportunity to reach their full potential — recognising that success can be measured in many ways.”