The joint managers of the county U21 hurling side will also be in charge of the Clare intermediates following last night’s Clare county board meeting.
However, their ratification was only allowed following a 15 minute private meeting between a selector from last year’s management and the county board.
The May county board meeting was punctuated by an extraordinary exchange between former intermediate selector Niall Romer and county board chairman Michael O’ Neill.
The Kilmaley man questioned the board as to why he wasn’t considered for the position of succeeding Kevin Kennedy as intermediate manager for the coming season.
Chairman Michael O’ Neill denied that Romer was misled into believing that he would take over, or that he was in any way wronged, Mr. O’ Neill also denied the implication that it was personal.
It was then proposed that Gerry O’ Connor and Donal Maloney would continue their work with the Clare Development Panel, which would form the basis of this year’s intermediate side.
However, this proposal was rejected by delegates after several speakers had voiced their support for Niall Romer.
As a result, the County Chairman and Secretary met separately with Romer to explain their reasoning privately.
The meeting then resumed with Niall Romer explaining that an incident had occurred in 2011, which he was not part of, and he wished the new management all the best for the coming season.
The meeting also heard that Colm Colins has decided to remain on as Clare Junior Manager.
The Cratloe man had resigned but following a revival of interest from players he and his selectors will now take charge of Clare next month in the Munster semi final against Waterford.