BRIAN CODY has stepped down from his role as manager of Kilkenny hurlers after 24 years in charge.
Cody led the Cats to this year's All-Ireland SHC final, where they lost narrowly to Limerick.
The 68-year-old first took charge of the county in 1998 and led them to 11 All-Ireland titles and 18 Leinster Championships.
Best wishes Brian Cody on your retirement, and thanks for your incredible contribution to hurling.
An outstanding player and manager with @KilkennyCLG.
You brought hurling to new heights, great joy and happiness to many, as well as some heartbreak to others!
— Micheál Martin (@MichealMartinTD) July 23, 2022
In a statement, the County Board said Cody had set a benchmark by which others would be measured.
"Appointed in November 1998 Brian has led the Kilkenny team to unprecedented provincial and national success and is regarded as the greatest manager in the history of hurling," read the statement.
"As manager, his teams have won eleven All Ireland Hurling Championships (including a record-equalling four in a row between 2006 and 2009), eighteen Leinster Championships, ten National Hurling League titles, seven Walsh Cup titles and an Oireachtas Tournament title.
'Unbreakable spirit'
"In achieving all of this success Brian has created an unbreakable spirit among his players and teams which has come to define Kilkenny hurling.
"On behalf of Kilkenny people everywhere, Kilkenny County Board extends sincere gratitude to Brian for his life time of contribution to the county and the commitment and passion he brought as a player and as manager, working tirelessly with a single aim, to do what was best for Kilkenny hurling.
"The Board would also like to acknowledge the bond Brian helped create between Team Management, Players, County Board, Clubs and Supporters Clubs as all worked seamlessly together in preparing our teams while organising and promoting our games.
'Huge debt'
"We are aware of the huge debt we owe Brian for the wonderful successes and occasions we have enjoyed as we watched the teams he created play and succeed.
"Wherever and whenever our games are discussed in the future, Brian Cody’s achievements will be the benchmark managers will be measured by."
In his 24 years in charge, Cody led Kilkenny to a total of 17 All-Ireland finals, winning 11 of them, including four-in-a-row from 2006 to 2009.
Brian Cody - simply the greatest! I doubt we will ever see the likes of him again. End of an incredible era for the cats! 🟡⚫️
— Conor Moore (@ConorSketches) July 23, 2022
The retired school teacher also led the Cats to 21 Leinster finals, winning 18, including seven consecutive victories between 2005 and 2011.
As well as his unprecedented success as a manager, Cody also won three All-Irelands, four Leinster Championships and two league titles as a player with Kilkenny.
