Sligo Rovers are delighted to confirm the signing of defender Sabrina Hillyer ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season. The American joins from the University of Texas at San Antonio, where she completed her undergraduate degree in Health Sciences and a master’s degree in Business, alongside gaining extensive collegiate experience.

Originally from Texas, Hillyer was a key figure for the Roadrunners across her time at UTSA. She made 62 career starts, playing a total of 4,689 minutes, and started all 22 games during the 2022 season, playing every minute of the C-USA Tournament semi-final and final. She contributed four assists that season. A two-time team captain, she helped guide UTSA to an NCAA Tournament appearance and was named Team MVP. She also earned multiple C-USA Academic Honour Roll selections, received All-District and All-State honours, and was named to the American Athletic Conference Watch List, underlining her consistency on and off the pitch.

Reflecting on her move to Rovers, Hillyer said:

“It’s really exciting to sign for the club. I love the ambition here and the support around the team. Coming to a new country and learning a new culture is a challenge, but it’s an opportunity to grow and compete at a high level. The girls have been welcoming, and it already feels like a place I can make an impact.”

On what she brings to the squad, Hillyer added:

“I’m comfortable across defence, whether it’s full back, wing back or centre back. I like to contribute going forward, deliver strong crosses, and I enjoy the 1v1 battles. I’m gritty, determined, and always look to help the team both defensively and in attack. I want to push myself and my teammates to improve every game.”

Discussing her ambitions for the season, Hillyer said:

“I know the league is competitive, and I’m joining a team with real ambition. My goal is to help Sligo Rovers challenge at the top, grow as a team, and make a statement in the league. Personally, I want to lead by example, contribute wherever needed, and bring the experience I’ve gained from my time in the US to the squad.”

Rovers manager Gavin Hughes highlighted Hillyer’s qualities and why she is a strong addition at this stage of the season:

“Sabrina is a proper full-back, aggressive, very strong in 1v1s and brave going forward. She is very clever in her defending and intelligent with her positioning and timing. She communicates constantly and brings more leadership to the back line, which will be huge for us.

With Sabrina in the team, we feel our defensive unit is much stronger, more connected and more secure.”

With Sabrina Hillyer joining, the squad now stands at twenty-four players ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season, joining earlier signings Abby Rooney, Ava Hallinan, Alice Lillie, Bonnie McKiernan, Emma Duffy, Leah Kelly, Anna McDaniel, Kelsey McQuillan, Rachel McGoldrick, Katie Melly, Emma Hansberry, Keela Scanlon, Ciara Henry, Cara King, Jessica Casey, Alana Doherty, Keeva Flynn, Ivana McMahon, Sydney Stephens, Manu Baptista Filipe, Cara Jordan, Natalie Yoo, and Ella Karolak.

Jack Dempsey

Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce the signing of defender Ella Karolak ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season. The 23-year-old centre back joins the Bit O’Red from the University of Illinois, where she developed into a composed and reliable defender, recognised for her leadership, communication, and consistency in defensive duels.

Karolak spent four seasons with the Illini as a Division I athlete, making 52 starts and accumulating 4,620 minutes of competitive action. She was a three-time Defensive MVP (2022, 2023, 2024), twice named Big Ten Player To Watch, and served on the team’s leadership committee throughout her career. Ella gained experience in the USL W League, helping Detroit City FC claim the Great Lakes Division title in 2025 and being named Defensive Player of the Year with FC Olympia in 2024. Off the pitch, she achieved multiple academic honours, including Big Ten Distinguished Scholar and three-time Academic All-Big Ten selection.

Reflecting on her move to the Showgrounds, Karolak said:

“It’s really exciting to sign for the club. I admire the history on the men’s side, and I want to help create history for the women’s team as well. The league is highly competitive, but I believe our squad can compete at the top level. Sligo is a beautiful town, and the community has been incredibly welcoming.”

On her playing style and what she brings to the team:

“I like to be involved in every phase of play and always want the ball. I’m comfortable on both feet, enjoy dictating play from the back, and am defensively strong. I like to be vocal on the pitch, organising the team and communicating with my teammates. I want to ensure we’re solid at the back while supporting the attack whenever possible.”

Looking ahead to the season and settling in with the squad, she added:

“I’ve seen teams in situations similar to Rovers, where growth and evolution are needed. Many of the club’s objectives align with my own, and I want to help the team make a real impact this season. Off the pitch, I’ve really enjoyed getting to know the squad. Everyone has been welcoming, which has made joining a new environment much easier.”

Rovers manager Gavin Hughes said Karolak immediately stood out for her composure, leadership, and defensive awareness.

“Ella has already, in this short time, led by example and brought real physical presence to our defensive unit. She plays comfortably off either foot and has an excellent range of passing. She sees things and executes them very well, whether short or long.

She is always positive and proactive, and her leadership skillset will be huge for us this season. She is the kind of player who sets the tone for the whole team, particularly within the defensive line.”

With Ella Karolak joining, the squad now stands at twenty-three players ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season, joining earlier signings Abby Rooney, Ava Hallinan, Alice Lillie, Bonnie McKiernan, Emma Duffy, Leah Kelly, Anna McDaniel, Kelsey McQuillan, Rachel McGoldrick, Katie Melly, Emma Hansberry, Keela Scanlon, Ciara Henry, Cara King, Jessica Casey, Alana Doherty, Keeva Flynn, Ivana McMahon, Sydney Stephens, Manu Baptista Filipe, Cara Jordan, and Natalie Yoo.

Jack Dempsey

Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce the signing of midfielder Natalie Yoo ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season. The 24-year-old joins the Bit O’Red after spending three seasons as a Division 1 athlete with the Texas A&M Aggies, advancing to the NCAA Elite Eight and making regular contributions over multiple campaigns. She also played her final graduate year at the University of San Diego, where she was team captain and part of the programme’s rebuild under a new coaching staff.

Yoo completed her bachelor’s degree in Business Marketing before adding a graduate qualification, demonstrating her commitment and discipline both on and off the pitch. Born in Southern California, Yoo holds dual nationality and has Korean heritage, and she was invited to join a South Korean national development squad, highlighting her recognition at international level.

Reflecting on her move to Rovers, Yoo said:

“It feels really exciting and is a dream of mine to play at this level. I spoke with Ciaran Fadden, assistant manager, about what I can bring to the team. I’m hungry to do well, and I’ve heard a lot about the league. It felt like the right environment to push myself.”

Describing her playing style, she added:

“I’d describe myself as competitive and someone who likes to be centre of the action in midfield, whether dropping deeper or supporting the attack. I’m creative and technical, enjoy taking on players, making forward runs into the box, and playing incisive passes. I’m comfortable on both feet and always look to make an impact for my team.”

On settling in with the squad, Yoo said:

“It’s been a bit of a culture shock, but everyone has been really welcoming. The dressing room has been great, which has made settling in much easier.”

Looking ahead to the season, Yoo explained:

“I want to help the team win games and compete at the top end of the table. Personally, I want to keep improving every week and contribute with goals and assists.”

Rovers manager Gavin Hughes believes Yoo adds balance and drive to the midfield.

“Natalie is technically very strong and fearless in possession. She loves getting on the ball, drives at defences, and brings creativity to everything she does. She has a great mentality and great energy, and we are excited to see her in the league.”

On why she is the right fit at this stage of the season, Hughes added:

“We trust that her attitude and desire to make things happen will give us another dynamic in the final third. She wants responsibility and thrives in competitive environments, which is exactly what we need.”

Regarding her impact off the pitch, he said:

“She is focused, professional, and eager to learn. Those standards raise the level within the group, and that is important for us as we continue to build.”

With Natalie Yoo joining, the squad now stands at twenty-two players strong ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season, joining earlier signings Abby Rooney, Ava Hallinan, Alice Lillie, Bonnie McKiernan, Emma Duffy, Leah Kelly, Anna McDaniel, Kelsey McQuillan, Rachel McGoldrick, Katie Melly, Emma Hansberry, Keela Scanlon, Ciara Henry, Cara King, Jessica Casey, Alana Doherty, Keeva Flynn, Ivana McMahon, Sydney Stephens, Manu Baptista Filipe, and Cara Jordan.

Jack Dempsey

Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce that Cara Jordan has joined the Bit O’Red ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season. The 24-year-old left winger arrives from the United States, becoming the third overseas signing for the squad this season following Sydney Stephens and Manu Baptista Filipe.

Originally from Connecticut, CJ developed her game through the Sporting CT and UConn sporting systems. She went on to represent the University of Connecticut while completing degrees in Exercise Science and Physics. During her time with Sporting CT, she played a key role in helping the side claim the 2025 WPSL National Championship, highlighting her influence at a competitive level.

CJ is a versatile and driven winger who thrives when involved in the play and creating opportunities for her teammates. She enjoys taking on defenders, linking up in attack, and contributing in the final third with creativity and flair.

“I’m really looking forward to getting going at Sligo Rovers,” CJ said. “The girls have been so welcoming and helpful. I like having freedom in the final third and being creative. I’m competitive and want to win things here with Rovers.”

On moving to Ireland, she added:
“I’ve been living with Damien and Mairead and they have been incredible, helping me settle in from day one. Arriving in Ireland, I didn’t know anyone, but I instantly connected with Sydney and Manu. We travelled together, explored the town, and quickly became close friends, which has made the transition so much easier. I love Sligo. It’s a beautiful town with friendly people and it already feels like home.”

Rovers manager Gavin Hughes said CJ has already impressed with her attitude and influence in training.

“CJ stands out for her work ethic and drive to improve every session,” Hughes said. “She communicates well, supports her teammates, and brings energy to every drill. She’s confident on the ball and looks to make the players around her better. That mindset will be important as we continue building the squad.”

On how CJ will connect with supporters, Hughes added:
“She’s committed, approachable, and passionate about the game. That enthusiasm will show on matchdays and in the way she represents the club. I have no doubt our fans will quickly take to her.”

With the addition of Cara Jordan, the squad now stands at twenty-one players ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season, joining earlier signings Abby Rooney, Ava Hallinan, Alice Lillie, Bonnie McKiernan, Emma Duffy, Leah Kelly, Anna McDaniel, Kelsey McQuillan, Rachel McGoldrick, Katie Melly, Emma Hansberry, Keela Scanlon, Ciara Henry, Cara King, Jessica Casey, Alana Doherty, Keeva Flynn, Ivana McMahon, Sydney Stephens, and Manu Baptista Filipe.

Jack Dempsey

Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce that Manu Baptista Filipe has joined the Bit O’Red ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season. The 23-year-old midfielder arrives at the Showgrounds following her time in the United States, where she combined her studies with a strong collegiate football career.

Originally from Porto, Manu developed her game at Sporting Clube de Braga, progressing through the club’s academy system between 2017 and 2020. During her development years, she also gained recognition at U16 underage international level, taking part in Portugal national training camps and highlighting her potential from an early age.

Manu later relocated to the United States to continue both her football and education in the collegiate system. She completed a degree in International Business and a Master’s in Education while competing at a high level of college football.

Reflecting on the challenges of moving abroad, Manu said:
“When I arrived in the United States, I didn’t speak English, so it was a tough adjustment. Covid was at its peak when I moved, which made it even more challenging. I had to quarantine for ten days when I arrived, and I remember thinking, ‘What am I doing here?’ It wasn’t until my first training session that I felt at home.”

Manu now continues her football journey in Ireland, bringing versatility and intelligence to the Sligo Rovers midfield. A right-footed midfielder, she enjoys being on the ball, linking play, and initiating attacks from deeper areas.

“I like to be involved in the game as much as possible. I enjoy short passing, give-and-go movements, and playing under pressure. I like to help start attacks and contribute on set pieces. I work hard, I am adaptable, and I like to communicate on the pitch. I always want to help the players around me improve.”

On her decision to join Sligo Rovers, Manu highlighted both the football opportunity and her early impressions of the town and club:
“I’m really excited to get going at Sligo Rovers. I’ve only been in Sligo a few days, but I love it already. It’s a cosy town, and you can see the love for football straight away. The people have been so welcoming, which has made the move easier.”

A familiar coaching connection also influenced her return to Europe.
“Ciaran Fadden was my assistant coach when I was in America, so we always kept in touch. I was interested in coming back to Europe, and when the opportunity arose, it felt like the right move for me.”

Rovers manager Gavin Hughes believes Manu will bring strong technical quality and tactical awareness to the squad.

“Manu stood out during recruitment because of her composure on the ball and her ability to influence games from midfield. From her early training sessions, you can see her understanding of space, her work rate, and her constant involvement in play.”

Hughes also highlighted how her style fits the team’s philosophy:
“She suits the way we want to play. She is comfortable receiving the ball under pressure, keeps possession moving, and has the vision to link defence and attack. Players with that level of awareness are extremely valuable.”

Off the pitch, Hughes expects Manu to positively influence the squad environment:
“She is a strong communicator and has already integrated well with the group. She brings energy, positivity, and enthusiasm, which will be important as we continue to build a competitive and supportive environment at Sligo Rovers.”

With the addition of Manu Baptista Filipe, the squad now stands at twenty players ahead of the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season, joining earlier signings Abby Rooney, Ava Hallinan, Alice Lillie, Bonnie McKiernan, Emma Duffy, Leah Kelly, Anna McDaniel, Kelsey McQuillan, Rachel McGoldrick, Katie Melly, Emma Hansberry, Keela Scanlon, Ciara Henry, Cara King, Jessica Casey, Alana Doherty, Keeva Flynn, Ivana McMahon, and Sydney Stephens.

Jack Dempsey

Sligo Rovers are thrilled to announce that Sydney Stephens has joined the Bit O’Red ahead of the new season. The 23-year-old arrives at the Showgrounds after completing her Master’s in Sports Management at the University of Illinois, where she combined her academic studies with an impressive collegiate football career with Illinois Soccer.

Sydney joins Sligo Rovers as a midfielder with a reputation for creativity and vision on the pitch. She was a regular starter for the University of Illinois women’s soccer team and made significant contributions in goals and assists while balancing her studies. Alongside her playing career, she has also pursued coaching, completing a grassroots licence to prepare for the future.

Speaking to sligorovers.com, Sydney described her excitement at joining the club and her decision to move to Ireland:

“After my college season finished, I looked at different opportunities to continue developing my game, and Ireland really stood out as a place where I could focus fully on football at a high level. Sligo Rovers showed belief in me and offered the right environment to keep improving, so I’m really excited to get started here.”

Sydney has built a reputation as a creative and intelligent midfielder. She reads the game well, can dictate play from the centre of the pitch, and brings vision, energy, and enthusiasm to the team.

“I like to think I’m a natural leader. I’ve always been the centre of the pitch, so communication naturally comes back to me. I enjoy having the game played through me. I’m creative, comfortable on both feet, and I can play across the pitch, including the wings. I’d rather set up a goal than score one myself. I work hard and give everything on the pitch, and I think speed is a big part of my game. Off the pitch, I like to be vocal too, an engine. Growing up, we always had a mentor for younger players, so that leadership has been ingrained in me, and now I want to role model the way I was guided.”

Her football education began in the St Louis Scott Gallagher academy, where she spent her formative years learning both on and off the pitch. The club instilled in her core values that have stayed with her throughout her career: tradition, passion, humility, respect, and unity.

“I was born and raised in Waterloo, Illinois, and I’ve been playing football as long as I can remember. I completed a Master’s in Sports Management at the University of Illinois because I want to play football for as long as humanly possible and eventually become a coach. I’ve also completed a grassroots coaching licence to give myself every advantage. My time at St Louis Scott Gallagher taught me everything I need to know about culture, core values, and being a team player – tradition, passion, humility, respect, and unity – and those lessons have stuck with me throughout my career.”

Sydney has quickly settled into life at the Showgrounds and praised the welcoming environment from club staff and teammates.

“The move to Sligo has been really welcoming. Damian and Mairead Grimes have been incredibly supportive, and I don’t know what I would have done without their guidance. Gavin Hughes and his staff have also been fantastic. The standards here are high, and no one is guaranteed a place, so we all have to work hard and give everything for the team and the girls.”

Rovers manager Gavin Hughes is confident that Sydney will make an immediate impact both on and off the pitch.

“Sydney is a technically gifted player who brings creativity, speed, and intelligence to every session,” Hughes said. “She’s a natural leader and already commands respect in training. Her experience at a high level of college football, combined with her mentality and professionalism, make her a perfect fit for the squad.”

He added that her influence extends beyond her on-field contributions.

“Off the pitch, Sydney has the character and leadership qualities we value. She understands what it means to be part of a group and is already mentoring some of the younger players. That attitude will be crucial as we continue to build the culture here at Sligo Rovers.”

With Sydney Stephens’ arrival, the squad now numbers nineteen players for the 2026 Women’s Premier Division season, following the earlier signings of Abby Rooney, Ava Hallinan, Alice Lillie, Bonnie McKiernan, Emma Duffy, Leah Kelly, Anna McDaniel, Kelsey McQuillan, Rachel McGoldrick, Katie Melly, Emma Hansberry, Keela Scanlon, Ciara Henry, Cara King, Jessica Casey, Alana Doherty, Keeva Flynn, and Ivana McMahon.

Jack Dempsey

Sligo Rovers can confirm that, following discussions with Sligo County Council, the following public car parks are available to match-going supporters on match nights:

• Adelaide Street Car Park
• Wine Street Car Park
• Quay Street
• Summerhill College area
• Mitchell Curley Park, Kevinsfort
• Market Yard

These car parks are free of charge from 6pm and are all within a few minutes’ walk of the Showgrounds.

The club’s astro pitch car park is also available on a first-come, first-served basis and there are spaces available in Nazareth House.

Supporters are asked to please respect local areas when parking, as the stadium is situated in a highly populated area.

Parking on footpaths is strictly forbidden, and An Garda Síochána will have traffic management measures in place, along with bollards positioned in areas where street parking is prohibited.

He may be a native of County Limerick, but Will Fitzgerald feels just at home in Yeats’ country these days. 

2026 will be the Raheen native’s fifth season with Sligo Rovers, his tenth as a League of Ireland player but his first as club captain.  

Initially brought to the Showgrounds in December 2021, the 26-year-old will very likely surpass his 150th appearance for the club in 2026. While he isn’t too far off his 250th senior League of Ireland appearance. 

Will spent a really impressive 2025 as vice-skipper to John Mahon. Injuries to and suspensions picked up by the Collooney man gave winger Fitzgerald plenty of opportunities to lead the team out and the former Derry attacker made the most of his elevated role, going on to be nominated for the player of the year. In this new season, being promoted to club captain is a source of great pride for Will. 

“I learned a lot from last season as vice”, he tells sligorovers.com

“John (Mahon) led the group impeccably and I tried to compliment that with my own style. When it was time for me to wear the armband it was such a huge honour and I really did cherish it. Leading the group and especially the younger lads was something that gave me a lot of pride. 

“It’s just a privilege. Sligo Rovers is a club steeped in rich history and success. You read about how it was built from nothing by the people of Sligo and the northwest and it’s totally sustained by its own supporters to this day. To not just represent that but to be club captain is something I hold dear. 

“There are so many great people behind the scenes who push the club on each week. I’ve seen it since I first came here, it’s incredible the community spirit and the love the area has for its football club. To represent those people, it’s something I am more than grateful for.”

Full of industry and physicality, Fitzgerald is also at the same time known for his penetrating, mazy runs and ability to create opportunity from out wide along with his ability to defend from the front. His versatility has been invaluable to Russell in recent years and is likely to be a key asset for the coming season. He’s just happy to fill in and play football.

“It really makes no difference where I play, I just want to play and perform.  

“I think once you reach a certain level in your career, your game begins to mature and fall into place. I know how John operates and wants his teams to perform and play. I just feel comfortable within that system and style.

“Second to that, my performances come down to being happy off the pitch. Sligo is a second home to me now and I’ve enjoyed every minute since coming here. Hopefully I can bring my 2025 form into this season, straight away.”

Rovers get down to business at the Brandywell on Friday night for what will be our 21st consecutive season in the top flight. A record only matched and bettered by both Pat’s and Bohs, both of whom are yet to be relegated. 

First up is one of the title favourites Derry City and Will is hoping Rovers can add points to the board early doors. 

“We were disappointed with our start last year”, he continues. 

“We had a run of results which almost ended up catching us out at the end. 

“But the first thing we did when we met up for pre-season, was talk about the importance of a good start and putting up from the get-go. That’s the aim and it starts in Derry on Friday night.

“John got his business done early this year and has brought in real quality and experience. I think in doing so, he’s allowed the new lads to get up to speed and familiar with how he wants to do things. You can see connections building with every passing day. It can only benefit the group, being around each other since early December. 

“It was difficult losing the likes of Paddy McClean, Owen Elding but that’s the nature of football. Compared to previous years, we’ve kept together the core of the team which is vital in creating a culture. We hope that’ll be a success as a result. 

“There’s a real optimism. It’s my tenth year in the league and the excitement for me is as big as ever. I believe we have a squad that can compete week in, week out. We’re keen to show the fans what we can do this year. 

“It’ll be a difficult start to the season. Derry have invested heavily with the sole purpose of winning the league. They’ve recruited some really big names.

“But we’re going into an electric atmosphere and that’s what we all want as players. We’re really looking forward to it as a group.” 

David Goulden

Sligo Rovers’ men’s senior team return to competitive action this Friday as the 105th edition of the League of Ireland gets underway across the country. Rovers head to title-challenging Derry City and to the Ryan McBride Brandywell Stadium, as the Bit O’Red get set to begin a 21st consecutive season of top flight football, a current record only bettered by St Pat’s and Bohs.

Kick-off in Derry will come almost one hundred days since Rovers memorably beat champions Shamrock Rovers at Tallaght Stadium in our last competitive game. There’s been plenty of transfer activity with key players such as Jeannot Esua, Carl McHugh, Mai Traore and Archie Meekison eligible for debuts.

Friday’s away end sold out almost immediately after tickets went on general sale last week and supporters will be keen to see defender Shane Blaney appear for the first time in Rovers gear since his return on loan. While star winger Ryan O’Kane gears up for his first game following his permanent transfer to the Showgrounds following a loan spell in 2025.

It’s been a busy pre-season for John Russell’s men, with friendly games against Finn Harps, Galway, Treaty and UCD all forming part of the club’s preparation for the coming season.

The fixture list has thrown up what will be one of the league’s toughest tests as our first game. Tiernan Lynch has again invested heavily in his squad as the Candystripes contnue the hunt for their first league crown since 1997.

Their most notable acquisition is of course Ireland international James McClean, who returns home after fifteen years in the UK. Derry have also recruited talent from within the League of Ireland such as Rob Slevin, Darragh Markey, James Clarke and Patrick McClean who spent a few months in Sligo last term.

The Brandywell has proven a challenging venue for Rovers over the past few seasons, however we have beaten City on a few occasions in the league on home turf. The most recent of these victories came last July courtesy of strikes from the aforementioned James McClean and Wilson Waweru.

In team news, Rovers will go north without goalkeeper Liam Hughes who is expected to miss out with a shoulder injury. But Russell does have a full squad to pick from as of Thursday evening, barring the net minder.

“It’s a new season and it’s one we’re so looking forward to”, Russell tells sligorovers.com.

“We went back to training in early December with the nucleus of our squad already formed. We got a lot of our business done before then and that was something we spoke about last season, that we’d hoped we could do.

“Hopefully having the players together from early on will stand to us.”

The fixture list has thrown up a tough start for Rovers, with three of our first four games taking place away from the Showgrounds.

Regardless, Russell isn’t fumbling for excuses and is instead focusing on a sharp return to competitive play.

“We’re looking for a fast start”, he says.

“We know what and where we needed to work on and we’ve honed in on that in pre-season, especially our start to the year and how important that is.

“We’re aiming to be competitive in the first round of games and we’re not looking any further than that. But we need to stay with the pack early on and assess things after that.

“Yes it’s going to be tough having a few away games at the start, but that’s the way it is. We have to play everyone at home and away twice, doesn’t matter in what order.

On Derry’s strength-in-depth, Russell believes the harder the task the more it will tell him about his side.

“I’m intrigued to see how it goes. It’s possibly the toughest test there is at the moment in the league. They’ve just beaten the double-winners.

“It’s going to be a sold-out, expectant Brandywell. They’re pushing to start well and will be challenging. But it’s going to be a crisp night under floodlights and a big, big atmosphere. What isn’t there to look forward to?”

Kick-off at the Brandywell is 7.45pm.

David Goulden

Sligo Rovers can confirm that Owen Elding has today completed a move to Scottish Premiership side Hibernian FC.

The transfer is worth an initial significant six-figure sum, which could potentially rise to seven figures over the duration of the contract as Elding departs the club he started out with as a boy.

The 19-year-old attacker, who turns 20 in March, initially joined Rovers when he was 12, featuring with the Abbvie Academy before breaking through to the first team.

He made his senior debut under current manager John Russell at the Showgrounds against Shelbourne in May 2023. Owen signed his first professional deal with Rovers at the start of the 2024 season before extending that agreement by another three seasons eleven months ago.

The Riverstown native enjoyed a breakthrough year in 2025, scoring 16 goals in 38 games and quickly became renowned and respected as one of the stand-out young talents in Irish football. He scored his first senior goal for the club on the opening night against Waterford.

His blistering form throughout last term was recognised both at home in Sligo and on the national stage as he scooped the club’s Mark Brindley Player of the Year award for 2025. He was also honoured by his fellow professionals, winning the PFAI Young Player of the Year award, the first Rovers player to do so since 1987.

These feats resulted in inevitable interest in Elding from clubs across the continent and Elding moves to Easter Road having featured over 60 times for the Bit O’Red.

Commenting on the departure, Russell says the player’s determination to prove himself day-in, day-out left the Rovers boss with little doubt that Owen’s career would go further than the League of Ireland.

“His outstanding talent combined with his mentality makes him a top player”, Russell tells sligorovers.com.

“He’s been a joy to work with. His character really shone through last year. Not only did he score important and spectacular goals, but he became a real leader at such a young age.

“Owen progressed through our academy and once he joined the first team he showed a real hunger and desire to improve every day. His success last season was no coincidence.

“We wish him the best of luck with this move to Hibs in Scotland and no doubt he has a big future ahead of him.

“We’re obviously disappointed to lose him so close to the start of the new season but he departs having left his mark at the club. We now move on to our opening game of the season next week in Derry.”

Elding is one of many Abbvie Academy graduates to be promoted to the first team in recent years. Head of Academy, Conor O’Grady praised the input of the club’s coaching staff in Elding’s development to date.

He said: “Owen’s an example for any player coming into our academy that there is a clear pathway to the first-team and beyond. If you show enough promise, you’ll be given a chance at Sligo Rovers and Owen’s further proof of that.

“This move is also confirmation of the fantastic work our coaches do at all levels. But Owen had a great attitude from the first day he came in the door at our academy. He was a player who was mentioned in the highest terms at all levels and the interest in him comes as no surprise.”

Rovers Chairperson Tommy Higgins wished Elding well on his move, acknowledging his goals last season which helped Rovers stay clear of relegation.

“It’s always a blow to lose someone as talented as Owen”, he comments.

“But as in any professional sport, if a player shines at a particular level, then it’s inevitable that another club at the next level will be interested in their talents.

“We thank Owen for his contribution to the club even at such a young age, particularly during last season. His goals at Tolka and Dalymount in particular will live long in the memory and his effort in a Rovers shirt was exemplary. We wish Owen and his family all the best in the next step of his career.

“The club are now looking forward to the beginning of the new season in a few days’ time as we finish off our pre-season work both on and off the pitch. Our management team and club volunteers at all levels have been working tirelessly since the end of last season to prepare to make 2026 as successful as possible.”

David Goulden