His appointment as the head of the Model team, accompanied by a talented support staff comprising David Franks, Frank Flannery, Damien Fitzhenry, and Éanna Martin, was met with great satisfaction. Rossiter’s esteemed position in the southeastern region grants him an extended honeymoon period in his new role. However, after a disastrous 2023 season, he is fully aware of the challenges that lie ahead in the hectic inter-county schedule next year.
During Darragh Egan’s second year as manager, Wexford experienced a downturn, culminating in their unexpected defeat to Westmeath in the Leinster SHC, which ultimately spelled the end for Egan. Rossiter, who successfully led the Wexford U-20 team to consecutive Leinster final appearances in 2022 and 2023, was chosen as his successor to revive the team’s fortunes. However, he is well aware of the significant obstacles he must overcome.
Managing a team with a history of injuries, including key players such as Lee Chin, Rory O’Connor, Matt O’Hanlon, Diarmuid O’Keeffe, and Damien Reck, has been a challenge for Wexford in recent seasons. Unlike the powerhouse teams, Rossiter does not have the same depth of resources at his disposal. Therefore, it is crucial for him to ensure that these crucial players are in peak condition when needed most. Chin and O’Connor, in particular, possess an X factor that Wexford cannot afford to be without. Rossiter is fully aware that fielding the best 15 players on any given day is a formidable task given the demanding schedule. He stresses the importance of ensuring that everyone gets game-time, trains together, and works cohesively as a unit.
While Egan received criticism for some lackluster performances, his commitment to nurturing young talent during his tenure cannot be questioned. Players such as Charlie McGuckin, Oisín Foley, James Lawlor, Conor Devitt, and Ian Carty have gained valuable experience in recent seasons, and their emergence is crucial. The likes of Liam Óg McGovern, O’Keeffe, O’Hanlon, and Chin, who are nearing their early thirties, will not be around forever, necessitating the rise of the next generation. Rossiter, having spent five years under former Wexford boss Davy Fitzgerald and overseeing the U-20 team, is well-positioned to guide these young players into the senior squad.
Conor McDonald, Jack O’Connor, and Kevin Foley possess great talent, but their performances have dipped in recent times. Rossiter’s task is to revitalise their form and extract the best of their abilities. McDonald, who was exceptional in Naomh Éanna’s Wexford SHC final victory, is a potent weapon, especially in aerial battles. Foley and O’Connor, on the other hand, need to find greater consistency to secure regular starting positions. Convincing Paudie Foley, a towering defender who has opted out of county duties in two of the last three seasons, to return is also crucial. Foley’s presence could help solve Wexford’s free-taking woes.
Overall, Rossiter faces a challenging task ahead. However, with his experience, knowledge of emerging talent, and determination to overcome obstacles, he is determined to lead Wexford back to success.
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