ByMichael McMullan

THERE will be an Ulster influence in Westmeath with the appointment of former Cavan star Dermot McCabe as their new senior football manager.

The Gowna man steps into the hotseat vacated by Dessie Dolan after their exit at the hands of Derry in the All-Ireland series.

McCabe has enjoyed success at the helm of his native club, was part of Cavan underage management teams, was involved in their 2011 Ulster minor win and was in Mickey Graham’s backroom team when the Breffni County won the 2020 Ulster title.

He has brought Donegal All-Ireland winner Mark McHugh on board as part of the management team.

McHugh had a spell with Fermanagh underage teams, Donegal senior ladies and the Roscommon senior men’s team. He is currently coaching Galway side Maigh Cuilinn who prepare for the upcoming decider against Corofin

Westmeath will begin the 2025 season in Division Two after securing promotion last season.

The appointment leaves Clare, Derry and Leitrim as the counties yet to appoint a senior manager for the new season.

The Oakleaf County are currently in the 15^th week of their search to find a replacement for Mickey Harte while Leitrim have been forced into a last-minute search after the shock departure of Mickey Graham after two months in the post.

Check out this week’s Gaelic Lives for a look back at last weekend’s club championship action across Ulster.