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Alex Dunne

Jim Gavin speaks about sadness of leaving Dublin job as he reveals his next steps in football

Jim Gavin will miss being involved with Dublin's 2020 campaign - but was full of praise for the players, staff, and supporters he is leaving behind.

The former Dublin boss shocked the GAA world by stepping down from his role as the all-conquering Dubs manager last month.

Dublin have since turned to Dessie Farrell, who they'll be hoping can replicate Gavin's success jumping up from under-21 level to senior level and deliver a sixth All-Ireland title in a row.

Tributes have flowed in from all corners of the GAA world since Gavin announced his departure, and now the Round Towers man himself has reflected glowingly on the end of his time in charge.

"I've had a phenomenal time with the guys," he told DubsTV.

"It's been a great journey, great fun, great memories.

"I'm privileged above all to be a part of the Gaelic Athletic Association, the biggest sporting organisation on the island of Ireland and it's renowned globally for its amateur ethos.

"I was so privileged to volunteer my time of behalf of Dublin GAA.

"We've had some great years, particularly memorable this year, with the guys closing the deal in the second game against Kerry. That was great to part of.

"I'm thankful for all the support the players have given to me during my time. I've had a phenomenal backroom team with the U21 and seniors. We've got great friendships amongst the whole management and backroom team."

The 48-year-old admits there is some sorrow that comes with his departure, as expected, especially when it comes to the Dublin fans, whose role Gavin praised in Dublin's dominance.

"I go away with some sadness that I won't have those days on the sideline hearing our great support," he said.

"Anytime I meet anybody there's a great gratitude amongst the supporters for what the players do, but it really works both ways.

"It means a lot to the players, the support we get from our fans. It means a lot to me as well.

"Whether we're away, in Parnell Park, or in Croke Park, our 16th man does come from the stands and that does mean a lot."

Gavin also revealed his next step will be taking on a hands-on role in Ballyboden St Enda's, who his son plays for.

"I look forward to going back to my son's local club, rolling up to sleeves for the great sporting association that we have," he said.

"And it has a broader and deeper impact on our society, it is not just a sporting organisation but has a culture to it as well

"I see that with my own club in Round Towers in Clondalkin and indeed with my son's club in Ballyboden St Enda's, so it's great to go back and I'm looking forward to it."

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