All-Ireland minor winning manager James O’Connor has been appointed as the new Waterford under-20 hurling boss.

The Lismore clubman guided the Deise to the Irish Press Cup earlier this year – securing the Deise’s first All-Ireland at any age group in nine years.

O’Connor will make the step up to under-20 with many of the same group – as 13 of the starting 15 from this year’s All-Ireland Final will be too old for the minor grade in 2026.

‘Joxer’ succeeds Ken McGrath in the role – McGrath had held the role for the last two seasons.

Waterford have recorded very few successes at the grade since lifting the All Ireland title at under-21 level in 2016.

O’Connor’s appointment was ratified at a meeting of the Waterford County Board this evening.

For the latest Waterford News and Sport, tune into WLR News on the hour and download the WLR App for news on demand.