Brian Cody is to remain as Kilkenny senior hurling manager for a 24th season.
Kilkenny confirmed the news on Monday night, ending any remaining speculation that the 67-year old may step away from the job.
The Cats won a 73rd Leinster Championship in July with a 1-25 to 0-19 win over Dublin.
However, their Championship was ended by a resurgent Cork side who beat them 1-37 to 1-32 after extra-time in an enthralling All Ireland semi-final.
That defeat means Kilkenny have gone six years without lifting the Liam McCarthy trophy, equalling a dry spell ended by Cody in 2000.
At the time he wouldn't be drawn on his future, telling OTB Sports, "There's always a winner and there's always someone who's not a winner in sport.
"It's the All-Ireland semi-final, there was three teams in the championship before the game and now there's two and unfortunately we're the ones after losing out.
"You get on with it, life goes ahead and what can you do except go ahead?
"Of course you'll be disappointed, it doesn't go away very easily but sport is sport and you drive on."
Cody's 24th season in charge of the Cats was ratified at Monday night's County Board meeting. James McGarry, Martin Comerford and Conor Phelan will serve as his selectors for the season ahead.
Clara native Phelan replaced DJ Carey in January of this year.
Derek Lyng is to continue as Kilkenny U20 manager, assisted by Peter Barry, Michael Rice and Peter Donovan.
Niall Bergin will manage the U17 side, with his management team to be confirmed at a later date.
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