Author: Kornel Dabek

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

Steve Feeney Enjoying his Sideline Patrol

Steve Feeney was handed the manager’s bib for the debut season of Sligo Rovers in the Women’s National League a week before Christmas Day 2021.

The first manager of the Sligo Rovers Women team was tasked with assembling a panel some 80 days before the first outing against high-flying Dublin club Peamount Utd.

On that first day Steve patrolled the sideline in west Dublin only a few yards from his Peamount Utd counterpart, James O’Callaghan, a former Sligo Rovers player during the 1992/’93 season.

Steve has a clear recollection of the first outing that produced home victory, but a subsequent reversal by the FAI when Peamount were penalised for fielding an ineligible player.

“Firstly, it was an honour to have the role of manager, and it’s a great achievement, the 100th competitive game for Sligo Rovers, if you go back five years or so, the club had under-age girls teams, but there was no talk about a senior team,” commented Steve.

“Looking back to March 2022, I suppose the excitement of the day for everyone, going to play one of the most successful teams in the Women’s National League as it was at the time, it was a real journey into the unknown.

“A big test for any team on the first day of the season, but it was even more daunting for us as it was our first competitive game and the first women’s team at senior level in the history of the club.

“We weren’t actually too disappointed at the end despite a 6-0 win for Peamount, we played well and showed plenty of character, something that has become a hallmark over the last few seasons

“We went on to demonstrate that character when we recovered from a two-goal deficit to beat Shelbourne 3-2 in the first live game televised by TG4 at the Showgrounds later that season.

“I even got a nomination for the manager of the year award at the end of the season along with Noel King and Tommy Hewitt, I was a bit surprised with that, but it was lovely to get to an event like that and represent the club,” he added.

Steve had two seasons at the helm, 2022 and 2023, but then he took a break for 2024 and returned to take on the role again for the current 2025 season.

“I took a break for 2024 because I really needed a break, it’s a demanding role, managing the team, and a full-time job with a family, four children and an understanding wife is a requirement,” explained Steve.

“The league has become very professional, apart from training there is a lot of other stuff to deal with as well. It’s challenging to keep on top of everything and try to get some sort of balance.

“The standards have improved so much, teams don’t get the recognition they deserve, but just look at what Athlone Town achieved there a couple of weeks ago in those first round Champions League qualifiers with 4-0 and 3-0 wins against Cardiff City and ZNK Agram from Croatia.

“When we started back in 2022 there was a bigger gap in standards, but that has closed substantially now although both Athlone Town and Shelbourne appear to be well ahead of the other 10 teams.

“When Sligo Rovers joined it brought the number up to 10 teams, but it was still a three-round series, now with 12 teams it’s on a two-round basis and the All-Island Cup has also added a new dimension.

“To be playing the 100th competitive game is huge for everyone involved in women’s football, there is a pathway now for young girls in Sligo and further afield, Donegal, Mayo, Leitrim, Roscommon, to play at the top level.

“At the moment we have players who have come through the Sligo Rovers Academy and have featured in many of those 100 games.

“Looking around the League you will see players making 100 appearances and over the next season or two we will probably have players from Sligo Rovers achieving that feat, long may it continue,” he concluded.

By Conall Collier

500 Club Winners May & June 2025

The 500 Club members draw for 500 Club Winners May & June 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.

May 2025

€500 Keith O’Dwyer – Dundalk, Co. Louth
€100 Ronnie Dunne – Heather View, Sligo
€100 Neil Kennedy – Boyle, Co. Roscommon
€100 Shane White – Collooney, Co. Sligo
€100 Keith Patterson – Carney, Co. Sligo
€100 Robbie Fitzpatrick – Rosses Point, Co. Sligo
€100 Ramon Chadda – Uppr Rosses Point, Co. Sligo
€1.00 Conor Maye – Oakfield Crescent, Sligo
€100 Colette Crowne – Lwr Pearse Rd, Sligo
€100 Enda Molloy – Ballinteer, Dublin

June 2025

€500 Brian Drury – Calry, Co. Sligo
€100 Gerard Melly – St. Johns Tce, Sligo
€100 Alan Fox – Rathmines, Dublin
€1.00 Michael Gilmartin – Cranmore, Sligo
€100 Gannon McNamara – Cedar Drive, Sligo
€100 Mary Kilmartin – Glasnevin, Dublin 9
€100 Robbie Fitzpatrick – Rosses Point, Sligo
€100 Ian Duggan – Kevinsfort, Sligo
€100 Gary Kilcullen – Maugheraboy, Sligo
€100 Michael Currid – Marymount, Sligo

Seb Quirk Signs for Rovers

Versatile midfielder Seb Quirk has signed a pre-contract agreement with Sligo Rovers and will officially join the club on July 1st subject to international clearance, the club can confirm.

The 23-year-old will join Rovers on an 18 month contract.

Quirk is primarily a central midfielder but can operate as a full-back on either side.

The Liverpool native joins Rovers after two and a half seasons with Accrington Stanley where he played over 40 league games.

Quirk came up through Everton’s academy where he first signed at the age of 11.

He joined Accrington Stanley in January 2023, and departed the club this summer when his contract expired.

As an Everton fan, Quirk has always kept a close eye on the Bit O’Red particularly in recent years when he played alongside former Rovers man Seamus Conneely at Accrington Stanley.

Quirk linked up with his Rovers team-mates this week, and although not eligible to play until July 1st, he has continued to train throughout the off-season to keep himself fit.

Speaking about his move to Sligo Rovers, Quirk told sligorovers.com: “I jumped on a Zoom call with John Russell a few weeks ago, spoke to him and I liked what he had to say so it seemed like a good place for me to come.

“It’s been really good, I’m really enjoying it. I’m in a house with two of the lads, they’re really sound. I like the training, we did the gym yesterday and the facilities are really good.

“When my season finished I went away for two weeks with my girlfriend but since I’ve come back I’ve been running and keeping fit so I am fit and ready. I just wanted to be ready for whatever came so I kept myself fit.”

Quirk explained what fans can expect to see from him.

“I’m athletic, I can get around the pitch quite well, I like a tackle! I don’t really do too many fancy things, I keep it simple and give it to the forward players who can do all of that.

“I’ve always been versatile really, even at Everton. I was always moved about because I’m quite tall and athletic. Last year I played left-back most of the year, in previous seasons I’ve played right back and central midfielder.”

As a big fan of Seamus Coleman, Quirk says he has closely followed Rovers’ progress over recent years.

“I’ve always known about Sligo Rovers and always kept an eye on them a little bit. I’m a big Everton fan, one of my favourite players growing up was Seamus Coleman so I’ve always kept an eye on Sligo Rovers. 

“The last couple of years my captain at Accrington was Seamus Conneely and he’d speak about the club so I did keep an eye.”

Having signed an 18-month contract with Rovers, Quirk is settling in well to life in Sligo.

“It’s always good to get a longer contract so you can settle easier. I’ve settled in really well because everyone’s made me feel so welcome and I’m really grateful for that.”

Manager John Russell has been keeping an eye on Quirk’s progress in recent years, and believes the 23-year-old is a big addition to his Rovers side.

“I’ve known about Seb for a couple of seasons, I actually saw him playing live for Everton’s 23s, they were playing in an international cup at the time, I was over on a visit at Everton. He caught my eye in that game, there were probably two or players I was keeping an eye on since then.

“He got a move to Accrington, he’s played in League One and League Two. I think his profile will suit our league in terms of his physicality, he’s a central midfielder by trade but can also play full-back. Having that versatility with a small squad will be massively beneficial for us.

“I think if you asked Seb where’s his favoured position he’d say centre mid, that’s where he played coming up through the academy at Everton. He’s a big boy, he’s over six foot. 

“He’s physical, he covers the ground. He has no problem playing full-back which is a real plus for us.”

And the Rovers boss believes that Quirk’s physical presence in midfield is exactly what Rovers need as they look to move further up the table.

“He definitely ticks the boxes in terms of having that physical presence in the middle of the park, he likes to put his foot in, he’s good on the ball as well. It’s the physical side that we need to get that balance with our group, we hope he’s going to make a big impact.

“At the end of last year we got a few players on two year deals, the likes of Will Fitzgerald, John Mahon, Jad Hakiki, Owen Elding signed a new deal, Wilson Waweru, you want to try and build a squad and a team going into a new season. 

“Seb is someone that has seen the project with us. He’s 23, he’s a good age profile, and I think he’s going to be a player who will improve as he plays more games and I think our style will suit him and he’ll make a big impact.”

Russell is confident that the addition of Quirk will be a big help as Rovers look to pick up more wins and improve on the current league position.

“It’s important that we strengthen the squad, we know we need to improve our league position and I definitely think bringing in quality players raises the level and standards within the group and helps us win matches. 

“We haven’t won enough games this year, I think the likes of Seb coming in early so he can train with the group so he’s ready come July 1st will be a big help.”

Jessica Farry