Down Faces Setback as Kilcoo Star Shealan Johnston Misses 2025 Season

Down’s Shealan Johnston will miss the 2025 season due to travel plans, adding to the team’s challenges ahead of their Division Two campaign

Down: The Mournemen are facing a tough start to the season. Shealan Johnston, a key player, is heading to Australia. This means he won’t be around for the Division Two games or the Championship.

It’s a bummer for the team, especially since they just won the Tailteann Cup. Coach Conor Laverty will also miss Liam Kerr, who is traveling too. Both players helped secure Down’s spot in the All-Ireland series last year.

But it’s not all bad news. They’ve added Hugh Pat McGeary to the squad. He’s a former Tyrone defender and brings a lot of experience. He played well for Rostrevor last season and is ready to step up.

Donnelly, a teammate, is excited about McGeary joining. He believes Hugh Pat’s leadership will be a big boost. Down kicks off their Division Two campaign against Roscommon this Sunday.

Laverty has also brought back Shay Millar and Paddy Brooks after their strong performance in the Down SFC semi-final. The team is gearing up for a challenging season ahead.

Image Credits and Reference: https://www.belfastlive.co.uk/sport/gaa/gaelic-football/down-suffer-second-blow-kilcoo-30841424