Author: Kornel Dabek

500 Club Winners March & May 2026

The 500 Club members draw for 500 Club Winners was made recently by the 500 Club Committee.

These monthly draws see ten members drawn each month for cash prizes, with the top prize being €500.

The 500 Club continues to be one of the club’s most important Fundraisers and we wish to thank all members, and the 500 Club committee for their continued hard work.

March 2026

€500 Michael Colreavy – Manorhamilton, Co. Leitrim
€100 Maurice Monaghan – Strandhill, Co. Sligo
€100 Mary Gilmartin – Glasnevin, Dublin
€100 Patrick Feeney – Blackrock, Dublin
€100 Jim Gallagher – Kintogher, Co. Sligo
€100 Paschal Donahoe – Nanuet, USA
€100 John Donaghy – Aberdeenshire, Scotland
€100 Austin O’Callaghan – Drumcliffe, Co. Sligo
€100 David Bagnall – Grattan St, Sligo
€100 Frank Keane – Holden Way, USA

May 2026

€500 Niall Brady – Ballinfull, Co. Sligo
€100 Stephen Taylor – Ballisodare, Co. Sligo
€100 Conor Heagney – Blackrock, Dublin
€100 Paul Hamilton – Strandhill, Co. Sligo
€100 Michael Travers – Southampton, England
€100 Gerard Kilfeather – Grange, Co. Sligo
€100 Enda Molloy – Ballinteer, Dublin
€100 Martin Reilly – Carraroe, Co. Sligo
€100 Kathy Rouse – Dooly Park, Sligo
€100 Kieran O’Dowd – Gurteen, Co. Sligo

St. Patrick’s Day Parade

After more than two decades away, our return to the Sligo St. Patrick’s Day Parade was nothing short of unforgettable. To be awarded “Best Representation of Theme” made the occasion even more special, marking not only a successful outing but a proud moment for everyone involved.

This year’s theme, Legends Live Here, felt tailor-made for our club. It offered the perfect opportunity to celebrate the people who have shaped our story over the years. From past heroes to present stars and the promising talents of tomorrow, the parade brought together a remarkable gathering of individuals who truly embody the spirit of our community.

We are especially grateful to Sligo Rovers for embracing and supporting our vision. In particular, we would like to thank Tommy Higgins, Shane Crossan, Conor O’Grady, Donagh Oates and Jamie Murphy for their encouragement and involvement.

Our sincere thanks also go to everyone who joined us on the day. Club volunteers, senior players from both the men’s and women’s teams, and young players from the Academy all played their part in making the event so memorable. It was particularly meaningful to welcome back some of our celebrated figures from the past, including Steve Birks, who travelled from the UK and famously captained the Bit O’Red to their League Cup triumph in 1998, and Jim Sheridan, a key figure in securing the First Division title in 2005.

A special highlight of the parade was our DS Futsal team, who brought incredible energy and enthusiasm throughout the day. Alongside the ever-popular Benny the Bull, they captivated the crowd and kept spirits high from start to finish even in the rain. Their contribution truly embodied the theme; legends, every one of them.

We would also like to extend our appreciation to the Sligo St. Patrick’s Day Festival Committee and the judges for organising such a successful and enjoyable event. Thanks as well to Sligo BID, all sponsors, volunteers, participants and spectators whose continued support ensures that this cherished tradition thrives year after year.

With sincere gratitude,
Catriona & Grainne Oates
(BORST & SRFC Volunteers)

500 Club Winners January & February 2026

The 500 Club members draw for 500 Club Winners was made recently by the 500 Club Committee.

These monthly draws see ten members drawn each month for cash prizes, with the top prize being €500.

The 500 Club continues to be one of the club’s most important Fundraisers and we wish to thank all members, and the 500 Club committee for their continued hard work.

January 2026

€500 Roe Finnegan – Woodville, Sligo
€100 Seamus McGowan – Mullingar, Co. Westmeath
€100 Arthur O’Dean – Stoneybatter, Dublin 7
€100 Gerard Heraghty – Maynooth, Co. Kildare
€100 Aillish Murphy – Pearse Rd, Sligo
€100 Brian McMorrow – St. Josephs Tce, Sligo
€100 Frank Carr – Cedar Drive, Sligo
€100 Catherine Egan – Martin Savage Tce, Sligo
€100 Bernie Maye – Old Mill, Union St, Co. Sligo
€100 Ciaran Coleman – Collooney, Co. Sligo

February 2026

€500 Pat McDaniel – Spiddal, Co. Galway
€100 Pat Devaney – Ballincar, Co. Sligo
€100 Olivia Leonard – Blackrock, Dublin
€100 Donal Ryan – Adare, Co. Limerick
€100 Gerard Heraghty – Maynooth, Co. Kildare
€100 Robert Sweeney – Straid-na-Mara, Sligo
€100 John Burns – Dromard, Co. Sligo
€100 Peter Meagher – Lwr Baggot St, Dublin
€100 Michael Gallagher – Crossmolina, co. Mayo
€100 Kieran Crowne – Pearse Rd, Sligo

Information for Travelling Supporters to Derry City

Updated: 06.02.2026

Away Supporters travelling to fixtures versus Derry City in The Ryan McBride Brandywell

Stadium are advised to note the following important information from the Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) which is in addition to all other standard legislation related to supporters, as well as stadium regulations etc.:

Pyrotechnics:

  • In line with the Justice Act (Northern Ireland, 2011), it is a specific offence to possess a firework (which can include flares) at a sporting fixture or anywhere from which you can view the fixture.
  • Where grounds exist the PSNI can search persons or vehicles for fireworks at any location in Northern Ireland, and the possession of fireworks without a licence is an offence under the Explosives (Fireworks) Regulations (Northern Ireland, 2002).
    There is a maximum fine of £5,000, a three-month prison sentence, or both.

Alcohol:

  • In line with the Justice Act (Northern Ireland, 2011), it is an offence to cause or permit alcohol to be carried on a motor vehicle, adapted to carry 9 or more passengers, which principle purpose is conveying passengers for reward to or part way to a regulated match.
  • The driver/operator and person hiring the vehicle can commit this offence and it is an offence to possess intoxicating liquor whilst on a relevant vehicle.
  • A Constable may stop and search a motor vehicle if reasonable grounds exist to suspect an offence.

The full document of the Justice Act (Northern Ireland, 2011) is available @ https://www.legisiation.gov.uk/nia/2011/24/contents

Please also note the following information from Derry City FC for Away Supporters:

• Away supporters will access the stadium via Gate 9, the inner car park. This gate is for Club Staff, Guests, officials and AWAY supporters only. This ensures that visiting supporters have a sterile segregated area in Blocks K, L and M Southend Stand.

500 Club Winners November & December 2025

The 500 Club members draw for 500 Club Winners November & December 2025 was made recently by the 500 Club Committee.

These monthly draws see ten members drawn each month for cash prizes, with the top prize being €500.

The 500 Club continues to be one of the club’s most important Fundraisers and we wish to thank all members, and the 500 Club committee for their continued hard work.

November 2025

€500 Leo Gray – Sraid na Mara, Sligo
€100 Martin Foley – Castle Street, Sligo
€100 Gerard Nicholson – Shannon Eighter, Sligo
€100 Jim Irwin – Toronto, Canada
€100 Bill Divers – Maugheraboy, Sligo
€100 Paul Waldron – Ballindine, Co. Mayo
€100 Lorna Fahey – Cairns Road, Sligo
€100 Pauric Kenna – Ardcairn, Cairns Road, Sligo
€100 Niall McClean – Collins Avenue East, Dublin 5
€100 Laura Norman – Sunset Drive, Cartron, Sligo

December 2025

€500 Paul Kilgallon – Stephen Street Court, Sligo
€100 Grainne Oates – 18 Kevinstort Heath, Sligo
€100 Myles Phillips – Drum Rd, Rathcormac, Co. Sligo
€100 Paul Mulligan – Rosehill, Sligo
€100 Joe Flynn – Celbridge, Co. Kildare
€100 Nicholas Eustace – Ranelagh, Dublin 6
€100 Dara Hensey – Westport, Co. Mayo
€100 Vincent Fowley – Cairy, Co. Sligo
€100 Pat Togher – Shannon Eighter, Sligo
€100 Leon Burns – Sandyfort Downs, Dublin 18

Internship Opportunity | Sligo Rovers Academy 

Sligo Rovers Academy – Performance Internship Programme 2026

Sligo Rovers Academy is now inviting applications for its 2026 Performance Internship Programme, offering students and recent graduates a unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience within a professional football environment.

The programme runs from January to October 2026 and supports the development of players across our U14 to U20 squads. Interns will work part-time with flexible hours to accommodate training and match schedules, and will collaborate closely with the Academy Head of Performance and wider multidisciplinary staff.


Available Internship Roles

Strength & Conditioning Coach
Assist in designing and delivering gym and field-based training programmes, conduct player testing and monitoring, and work with staff to support physical development and injury prevention. 

Sports Nutritionist
Support players by delivering nutrition education, guidance on fuelling and recovery, and helping to build positive long-term habits. Develop practical nutrition resources and liaise with performance staff to align strategies with player needs.

Video Analyst
Film, code, and analyse training sessions and matches. Produce reports and video feedback for coaches and players, assist in opposition analysis, and help maintain the academy’s video database.

Athletic Therapist / Physiotherapist
Work pitch-side and in treatment settings to assist with injury assessment, treatment, rehabilitation, and return-to-play planning. Contribute to injury prevention strategies and support daily player care. 


What You Will Gain

  • Practical experience in a professional football academy
  • Mentorship from experienced sport science, medical, and coaching staff
  • Opportunities to apply academic knowledge in real-world settings
  • Experience supporting the development of youth athletes progressing toward senior football
  • A collaborative environment focused on learning, growth, and high performance

Ideal Candidates

  • Currently studying or recently graduated in:
    • Sports Science / Strength & Conditioning
    • Athletic Therapy / Physiotherapy
    • Sports Nutrition or Dietetics
    • Performance Analysis or Coaching
  • Strong communication, organisation, and teamwork skills
  • CPR/First Aid certification and Garda vetting (or willingness to obtain)

How to Apply

Send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your preferred role(s) and motivation to:

📧 benhouston959@gmail.com
🗓️ Deadline: 12th December 2025


Join Us 

This is a fantastic opportunity to gain practical experience, learn from professionals, and contribute to the continued growth and success of one of Ireland’s leading football academies. 

Sligo Rovers Celebrate Academy and Senior Player Awards 2025

Sligo Rovers FC proudly recognises the outstanding achievements of our academy and senior players during the 2025 season. Their dedication, talent, and teamwork have been rewarded with well-deserved honours

Academy Players of the Year

Senan Keane – U14s Men’s Player of the Year, voted by teammates

Scott Williams – U15s Men’s Player of the Year, voted by teammates

Oisin Choo – U17s Men’s Player of the Year, voted by teammates

Thomas Morley – U20s Men’s Player of the Year, voted by teammates

Ellen Gilmartin – U17s Women’s Player of the Year, voted by teammates

Julia Gawalkiewicz – U19s Women’s Player of the Year, voted by teammates

Senior Players Honoured

Bonnie McKiernan – Sligo Rovers Player of the Year 2025

Owen Elding – Mark Brindley Player of the Year 2025

Anna McDaniel – Sligo Rovers Young Player of the Year 2025

Gareth McElroy – Sligo Rovers Young Player of the Year 2025

Thank You to BORST

We extend our gratitude to BORST for their commitment throughout the year. Their organisation of the awards event ensured a smooth and memorable evening, celebrating the achievements of all players at Sligo Rovers FC

500 Club Winners September & October 2025

The 500 Club members draw for 500 Club Winners September & October 2025 was made recently by the 500 Club Committee.

These monthly draws see ten members drawn each month for cash prizes, with the top prize being €500.

The 500 Club continues to be one of the club’s most important Fundraisers and we wish to thank all members, and the 500 Club committee for their continued hard work.

September 2025

€500 Colm Martin – Kevinsfort, Sligo
€100 Gerard Melly – St. John’s Terrace, Sligo
€100 Gerry Hargadon – Strandhill Road, Sligo
€100 Janet Benson – Strandhill, Sligo
€100 Paul Kivlehan – Ballymote, Sligo
€100 Vincent Nally – Lisnalurg, Sligo
€100 Derek Costello – Rathedmond Estate, Sligo
€100 Oisín Moran – Cook Street, Dublin
€100 Joe McDonagh – Chapel Street, Sligo
€100 Jim Gallagher – Kintogher, Sligo

October 2025

€500 Brian Mulvihill – Killiney, Co. Dublin
€100 Bernie Fowley – Templemore, Co. Tipperary
€100 Brian Drury – Calry, Co. Sligo
€100 Fionn Carty – Ballinfull, Co. Sligo
€100 Martin Finan – High Road, London
€100 Mickey Forde – Enniscrone, Co. Sligo
€100 Barry Rafter – Castletroy, Co. Limerick
€100 Fergal McHugh – Grange, Co. Sligo
€100 Seamus Gilmartin – Grange, Co. Sligo
€100 Eugene Gilgun – Manorhamilton, Co. Leitrim

500 Club Winners July & August 2025

The 500 Club members draw for 500 Club Winners July & August 2025 was made recently by the 500 Club Committee.

These monthly draws see ten members drawn each month for cash prizes, with the top prize being €500.

The 500 Club continues to be one of the club’s most important Fundraisers and we wish to thank all members, and the 500 Club committee for their continued hard work.

July 2025

€500 Kate Lawlor – Dalkey, Co. Dublin
€100 Manus Bree – Nephin Road, Dublin
€100 William Gaffney – Ardaghowen, Sligo
€100 John Kavanagh – Hazlewood Demense, Sligo
€100 Mark Harrigan – Oakfield Park, Sligo
€100 Conor Lynch – Maugheraboy, Sligo
€100 Brian Kenny – Sandymount, Dublin
€1.00 Jason McGuinness – Dromore West, Sligo
€100 Roe Finnegan – Woodville, Sligo
€100 Brendan Tolan – Stillogran, Dublin

August 2025

€500 Gavin Dykes – Ballydoogan, Sligo
€100 Kenneth Gilmartin – Aberdeen, Scotland
€100 Oisin Rynn – Bohernabreena, Dublin
€1.00 Clan Scanion – Drumiskabole, Sligo
€100 Rian Fahy – Cairns Hill, Sligo
€100 William Costello – Pearse Cresent, Sligo
€100 Carolan Catering – Molly Fultons, Sligo
€100 Jim Melly – Devins Drive, Sligo
€100 Peter Henry – Pearse Rd, Sligo
€100 David Conway – Rosses Point, Sligo

Job Opportunity – Programme Coordinator

Job Opportunity – Programme Coordinator Join Sligo Rovers Football Club – Programme Coordinator (Sligo) Location: Sligo Hours: Part-time, 25 hours per week Contract: Fixed-term (3 years) Application Deadline: Wednesday September 3rd Job Opportunity – Programme Coordinator

Sligo Rovers FC is recruiting a committed and experienced Programme Coordinator to lead the delivery of the PEACE Academy programme in Sligo delivered in partnership with the Rio Ferdinand Foundation. 

The PEACE Academy programme is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) https://www.seupb.eu/’ . A three-year youth development initiative designed to empower young people across Catholic/Nationalist/Republican (CNR), Protestant/Unionist/Loyalist (PUL), and newcomer communities, as well as on a cross-border basis’ working in partnership with Glentoran FC Through shared experiences rooted in sport, music, creative arts, and digital media, the programme supports personal growth, social action, learning, and employability—building a positive, shared future for Sligo and beyond. 

About the Role: 

As Programme Coordinator (Sligo), you will: 

· Lead the implementation of a vibrant, inclusive programme that brings together young people from all community backgrounds in Sligo. 

· Work with Sligo Rovers FC, the Rio Ferdinand Foundation and Glentoran FC, grassroots organisations, and key stakeholders to ensure cross-community engagement is embedded in every aspect of delivery. 

· Coordinate a team of sessional staff delivering twice-weekly mentoring and youth development sessions. 

· Collaborate with cross-border colleagues to ensure the programme is connected across both regions. 

· Support young people to co-design and lead social action projects that directly tackle division, racism, and hate. 

· Plan and deliver workshops, training, and community events that promote inclusion, aspiration, and connection. 

· Ensure accurate monitoring and reporting against PEACEPLUS targets and outcomes in collaboration with support staff. 

What We’re Looking For: 

We’re looking for someone who brings: 

· A relevant qualification in youth work, sport, arts, digital media, or community development. 

· At least three years’ experience working with young people, including experience engaging diverse or marginalised groups. 

· At least two years’ experience coordinating youth or community programmes, ideally in a cross-community or peacebuilding context. 

· A deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing young people in Belfast, especially in relation to division and inclusion. 

· Confidence in managing staff, building partnerships, and delivering impactful community-focused projects. 

· Strong communication, problem-solving and organisational skills. 

· Experience with SEUPB-funded or similar programmes (desirable). 

Additional Information: 

· Some evening and weekend work will be required. 

· An Enhanced Access NI check is required prior to appointment. 

· The role is based in Sligo and reports to the PEACE Academy Programme Manager at the Rio Ferdinand Foundation. 

· A strong commitment to peacebuilding, inclusion, and the values of Sligo Rovers Football Club and the Rio Ferdinand Foundation is essential. 

Why Join Us? This is a unique opportunity to join Sligo Rovers FC and contribute to a cross-community, cross-border initiative that uses culture, sport and creativity to transform lives. You’ll be part of a forward-thinking team, helping young people from all backgrounds shape a more inclusive and hopeful Belfast. 

How to Apply: Please send your CV with a covering letter to fsr@sligorovers.com by Wednesday September 3rd