Statement: John Costello To Retire as Dublin GAA CEO

John Costello, jointly with the Management Committee of Dublin GAA, has announced that he will retire as Chief Executive Officer in October of this year. 

John has worked with Dublin GAA since 1994 and has overseen the reorganisation and growth of the association in the capital through a number of significant initiatives including the implementation of the strategic plan - ‘The Blue Wave’ - in 2011.

John Costello said: “It has been an extraordinary honour and privilege to serve Dublin GAA as CEO, a role I have enjoyed immensely and where my primary focus was always on sustaining and enhancing the association in Dublin."

“I am proud of the organisation we have today and the impact we have in our community. This is as a result of the collective efforts of remarkable individuals - dedicated officers, committees, staff, players, team managements, sponsorship partners and especially the club volunteers who administer and promote our games at local level.”

“I would like to thank my wife Marie and family, without their unfailing support over almost thirty years none of this would have been possible.”

Michael Seavers, Chairperson Dublin GAA expressed his appreciation, stating that “Dublin GAA, and indeed the association nationally, has been extremely fortunate to have had John Costello as its Chief Executive for the past thirty years. 

"This was during a time of great change in Ireland, with increased urbanisation and when the population of Dublin was growing amid the significant economic, technological, cultural and commercial changes that were taking place. 

"John’s calm demeanour, leadership and deep understanding of the GAA and its place in Irish society have been instrumental in charting an effective course for the development of Gaelic games in our capital city.”

“John’s vision, integrity, versatility and commitment were critical in ensuring the growth of Dublin GAA by such initiatives as the introduction of the coaching and games development structures in 2004, the commissioning of the Blue Wave Strategic Plan, the Spring Series to promote Gaelic games in the capital and the more recent acquisitions of Spawell and Hollystown to allow for the increased participation of males and females, of all ages, in our games.”

“In recognising his outstanding career, I, on behalf of the Dublin GAA Management Committee, his colleagues and the wider GAA family, express our sincere thanks to John, his wife Marie and their family, and wish him every good fortune as he moves on to the next stage of his life.”

The process to find a successor to ensure a smooth transition is underway.