Former boxer Bernard Dunne to take up role with Wexford GAA

Former professional boxer, Bernard Dunne, is set to take up a role with Wexford GAA…

Bernard Dunne, born September 30, 1980, in Dublin, Ireland, is a former professional boxer who competed from 2001 to 2010. A super bantamweight, he captured the WBA World Super Bantamweight title in 2009, defeating Ricardo Cordoba.

Known for his fast hands and resilience, Dunne’s career highlight was defending his European title. He retired with a record of 28-2, leaving a legacy as one of Ireland’s most celebrated boxing champions.

Dunne was previously high performance director for Irish Athletic Boxing Association for four years up to 2022 and later served in the same role in the Boxing Federation of India.

According to a report by John Fogarty of the Irish Examiner, Dunne is now set to join Wexford GAA in a new role:

“It is understood Dunne has been recommended by the county’s high performance advisory committee to assist in the development of players and coaches from under-age level up,” the report reads.

Dunne acted as a “Sports Performance and Lifestyle Coach” with Dublin GAA from 2013 to 2020, overseeing multiple All-Ireland title wins with the Dublin footballers.

Wexford GAA have since confirmed the appointment of Bernard Dunne. Wexford GAA released the following statement on Friday afternoon:

“Wexford GAA, through the High Performance Plan for Hurling, is delighted to announce the appointment of former world champion boxer Bernard Dunne to a newly created Talent & Culture Development role. This position represents a major step forward in Wexford GAA’s commitment to supporting players, enhancing performance standards, and building a strong culture of excellence across the county,” it reads.

Dunne, a proven leader in elite sport, has guided athletes to Olympic and World Championship success as High Performance Director with Irish Boxing, overseen major progress in Indian boxing, and contributed to Dublin football’s historic All-Ireland run.

In his new role, Dunne will work with players, coaches, and management to strengthen player pathways, develop coaching standards, and embed a winning culture across Wexford hurling.

Speaking on the appointment, Wexford GAA Chairperson, John Kenny, said:

‘We are thrilled to welcome Bernard to Wexford GAA. His experience at the very highest level of sport, and his proven ability to build winning cultures, will be a huge asset to our players and coaches throughout the county.’

Dunne added: ‘I believe in the power of culture, values, and high standards to unlock potential. Wexford has a proud tradition, and I’m looking forward to helping athletes thrive.’

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