Former Waterford manager Michael Ryan has been ratified as the new Westmeath hurling boss.
Ryan, who managed his native Déise in 2012 and 2013, takes over from Brian Hanley.
Ryan led Waterford to a Munster final in 2012, where they were beaten by Tipperary.
He has also managed the Waterford Ladies Football seniors team to multiple All-Ireland titles, and club hurling sides De La Salle and Mullinahone to county success.
Westmeath retained their Liam MacCarthy Cup status with a defeat of Christy Ring Cup winners Kildare in a play-off in June.
The Lake County will play in Division 2A of the Allianz Hurling League next year.
