Sligo Rovers are delighted to confirm that the club has reached an agreement with exciting young winger Alex Nolan, with the 22-year-old joining the Bit O’Red on a one year deal.

The former Cork City and St Patrick’s Athletic wide man has signed a pre-contract, effective from December 1st and is manager John Russell’s third new addition with the 2026 season on its way. 

A graduate of the Shamrock Rovers academy, Dublin born Nolan moved to Shelbourne in 2020 where he won the First Division title a year later. He signed for UCD ahead of the 2023 season where he scored his first goal for the Students against Rovers in February of that year. 

Nolan, who can operate on both flanks and as a number ten, moved on to St Pat’s mid-way through 2023. At Richmond Park, he featured in Europe before winning the FAI Cup with Pat’s later that season.

Nolan, who grew up in Dunboyne, Co Meath made his 100th senior career appearance at his next club Cork, where he again reached the cup decider only to be beaten by Shamrock Rovers in the final just a few Sundays ago. This, shortly after Nolan scored at the Showgrounds in the Rebels’ draw with Rovers in Sligo on October 25th in what was the Bit O’Red’s final home game of last season. 

Now looking forward to lining out in the famous Rovers red, Nolan told sligorovers.com of his excitement ahead of what he is hoping will be a season to remember.

“Playing against Rovers the last few years for UCD, Pat’s and Cork, it’s always been a challenge”, he says. 

“Sligo always gave us problems any time I played against them. The squad has always been young and full of running, playing in a really positive way so I think that’ll just suit me. I like to and want to play (with) the ball on the ground and run at people. My job this year will be to create chances and hopefully finish a few off and that’s what I’m working towards.

“I was in touch with John this time last year but I ended up going to Cork. However, I kept in touch with him and hoped to sign here during the summer. That didn’t work out but I spoke to him again on multiple occasions towards the end of last season and it was a chance I jumped at. From speaking to him and from seeing the way Rovers have played the last few years, it’s a move that really excites me. 

“I’m only young but I do have a good bit of experience so far in the league. It definitely helps, knowing the teams, the pitches, who you’re up against and how a certain manager plays. I’d like to think I had a good idea of the strengths and weaknesses of teams last season. Obviously squads change, but you have an idea of what to expect from each manager.”

Listing his hopes for 2026, Nolan is ambitious to keep adding to his trophy haul which includes those First Division and FAI Cup crowns. He also won a Leinster Senior Cup with Pat’s in 2024.  

“The manager is building a really decent young squad which will still have experience. I know a few lads already, Jad Hakiki and Cian Kavanagh would have played with me at Shels and Pat’s. John has kept a lot of the experience from last season so we should be strong.

“We definitely want to push for Europe and finish as high as we can. The club hasn’t been in a cup final since 2013 so it’s due a run and I’ve heard all about what it was like the years Rovers won the cup in early 2010s. It’s a dream of mine to be part of another big win here. I hope I can create and score a few goals that might help us realise that ambition.” 

Welcoming Nolan to Sligo, Russell says he brought his new winger to the north west to get the fans on their feet.

“You need players with pace and the ability to beat people in one v one situations and Alex will bring that to our team”, Russell tells sligorovers.com. 

“Alex is a really talented player and I’m delighted to bring him to Sligo Rovers. 

“He is a player who always wants the ball and wants to make things happen in the final third, whether that’s putting dangerous crosses into the box or using his ability to cut in from the right side and get shots off. We’re looking forward to getting going with him in our squad as I feel he really fits our profile well.” 

Nolan is the fifteenth player to sign for 2026. These include Carl McHugh, Ollie Denham, Sam Sargeant, Paddy McLean, Gareth McElroy, Conor Reynolds, Sean Stewart, Owen Elding, Cian Kavanagh, Archie Meekison, Will Fitzgerald, Seb Quirk, Kyle McDonagh and Jad Hakiki. 

David Goulden 

John Russell has added experience to his Sligo Rovers first team squad ahead of the 2026 season with the signing of midfielder Carl McHugh, the club are delighted to announce. 

The 32-year-old Donegal man is Russell’s second new addition ahead of next season, agreeing a two year deal with the Bit O’Red effective from 1st January next, having pressed ink to a pre-contract this week. 

A native of Lettermacaward on the Donegal coast, McHugh began his career with Reading before joining Bradford City in 2012 following a short stint on loan at Dundalk where he played against Rovers at Oriel Park in a 1-1 draw in August 2011. 

At Bradford, he achieved promotion from League 2 in 2013 and helped the Bantams to a famous League Cup final appearance that year with McHugh scoring past fellow county-man and Irish centurion Shay Given in an epic semi-final win over Aston Villa. 

He would go on to feature for Plymouth and spent three years as a familiar face at Motherwell before making the move to Asia and to the Indian Super League, winning that competition twice along with success in the Indian Super Cup before departing FC Goa during the summer after a second placed ISL finish. The former Dungloe Town star has also featured for and captained the Republic of Ireland at underage level from 15s to 21s.

Comfortable in defensive positions as well as in the middle, McHugh told sligorovers.com he couldn’t pass up the opportunity to ply his trade at the Showgrounds and closer to home.  

“John reached out to me a while back about making a move back to Ireland and we’ve stayed in touch since”, he says. 

“I kept a close eye on Rovers and the league in general and it’s clear it’s a very well run club. Last year, they really played some very nice football with some really talented young players. After speaking to John, working with him was a big part of signing too. 

“He’s done a great job the last few years and I know how highly regarded he is within Irish football. He’s so passionate about this club and how we can all improve things. I think I’ll learn a lot from him. 

“I watched a lot of Rovers, especially the second half of last season. The team went on a great run and it’s clear to see how much talent is within it. Knowing that there’s a strong core already here, it gives me a lot of optimism. Hopefully I can add to that.

“I just felt like it was a really exciting time to join here and it comes at a great time in my career. Moving back closer to home and my friends and family is part of the move and I’m really excited.”

Even in his early 30s, McHugh is likely to be one of the more senior players at Rovers and in what is a League of Ireland with a much younger profile than his last stint here. He’s looking to lend that experience to his fellow squad members over the next few years.

“I’ve had lots of different types of experiences in my life and on the pitch”, he continues. 

“I hope I can bring that on to my time in Sligo. As I said, we have a very talented, young squad and I’ll be looking to help them as much as I can both on and off the pitch. I’m a player who is committed and competitive. I think I have a good understanding of the game and I look to offer balance to a team.” 

2026 will be Carl’s first year in fifteen that he’s featured in the Irish domestic game and he’s already enthused by the prospect of being part of the Bit O’Red’s story in our 98th year. 

“I’ve always followed the league. A lot seems to have changed since the time I was at Dundalk and certainly for the better. It has grown so much in terms of professionalism and stability within the league. From an outside looking in, the standard has improved so much and it’s very competitive. It’s become a great platform for younger lads to play first team football and excel. It’s critical for Irish football that the league continues to grow and I’m excited to be part of it now.

“I can’t wait to get back to training and getting sharp. When you sign for a club, you want to help it kick on. If you can find consistency, there are huge opportunities for you here. I want to play in Europe, which is something I’ve never done. I want to achieve that at the Showgrounds and of course win a trophy or two. That would be amazing.” 

Manager Russell says that McHugh’s time spent watching Rovers in 2025 and his familiarity with the team can only be beneficial as Rovers head towards the beginning of pre-season in a few weeks time.  

“I know from our conversations, Carl is excited about the challenge ahead. He’s watched a lot of our games so I feel his transition into our team will be seamless”, Russell says.

“Carl is someone who has played at a really high level throughout his career so I’m delighted to bring him to the club. 

“I felt it was important to bring in an experienced midfielder who could dictate the play while also giving us that balance and defensive quality in our team.”

McHugh joins thirteen of his new team-mates as those contracted to Sligo Rovers for 2026. These are Ollie Denham, Sam Sargeant, Paddy McClean, Gareth McElroy, Conor Reynolds, Sean Stewart, Owen Elding, Cian Kavanagh, Archie Meekison, Will Fitzgerald, Seb Quirk, Kyle McDonagh and Jad Hakiki. 

David Goulden 

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 are delighted to confirm that fans’ favourite Ollie Denham has extended his current deal to the end of the 2026 season.  

Heading into what will be his third year with the club, Ollie finished 2025 on a high when he scored his first goal for Rovers in that pivotal win at Tallaght Stadium last Saturday. 

The 23-year-old’s signature brings to 13 the total number of first team players contracted at the Showgrounds for next year. 

Centre-half Denham initially joined the Bit O’Red on loan from Cardiff City ahead of the 2024 season, before making the move permanent last summer. 

The former Manchester United youth has made 61 appearances for the club to date, with that single goal against the Hoops coming at a critical time.

“It was a great feeling and especially in such a big game”, Denham tells sligorovers.com. 

“Goal-scoring is certainly something I want to add to my game. Once you’ve done it, you want a taste of that feeling again and again.”

Reflecting on 2025, Ollie has somewhat mixed feelings given he missed a portion of the season with a sports hernia. However, this has made him even more hungry to progress both personally and with the team in 2026. 

“Last season didn’t go to plan”, he says. 

“I suffered from an injury right from the start and it eventually led to me being out for a few months. Thankfully I’m recovered now. It was very frustrating but that’s part of football. For me, it was about remaining positive and being as fit as I could be to help me through. I’ll be using this off-season to strengthen myself and give myself the best chance of hitting 2026 in the best condition I can. 

“For the team, we certainly should not have been involved in a relegation battle. We have some great players in this squad, a great management team and an amazing fan base. I know the lads feel the same, we should have finished much higher than we did. 2026 is about putting this all right.”

On his decision to extend his deal into the next twelve months, the Englishman says he’s taken aback in the last two years, by the dedication of the Red Army and by how the club is so embedded in the sporting culture of the north west. 

“I’m really pleased to get the deal over the line and be here for another season”, he continues. 

“I’m very happy here in Sligo and have been since day one. I feel we can build something really strong here both as a team and as a club.

“I have really begun to understand and appreciate the importance of Rovers being a community club and being run by the supporters. The time and effort our volunteers spend working and giving to the club is phenomenal. From fund-raising to travelling with us and helping out with match-day, the players see it and it’s unbelievable. There’s no club like us. 

“It really focuses the players’ minds on giving everything both in training and match day. You’re striving to match the effort the fans put in.”

Ollie is also quick to note the input of his manager in his own development and in his reason to commit to the Bit O’Red. 

“I’ve definitely grown both as a player and a person compared to when I arrived here. I want to keep progressing under John and help the club to keep progressing.

“John was a massive reason I joined here and was huge in my decision to stay here. He trusts me and I love playing under his style. I enjoy how he pushes all of us so much and how he gives balanced feedback to us. He’s highly focused on how he can make each player better and that’s massive for us.” 

Outlining Denham’s importance to his plans, Russell says securing the Blackpool native’s future was top of his post-season list. 

“Ollie is one of the best defenders in the country so we’re delighted he’s staying on”, Russell tells sligorovers.com. 

“His signature was always a priority for us. This move shows how ambitious we are as a club moving forward. 

“He’s a player of immense quality even at 23 and will only get better and better. People forget how young he is. He reads the game so well and brings a calmness to the pitch and to his team mates. He’s just an all-round brilliant defender and we’re excited to see how much further he can progress with us.”  

Denham joins Sam Sargeant, Paddy McClean, Gareth McElroy, Conor Reynolds, Sean Stewart, Owen Elding, Cian Kavanagh, Archie Meekison, Will Fitzgerald, Seb Quirk, Kyle McDonagh and Jad Hakiki on the list of players under deals at the Showgrounds ahead of 2026.

David Goulden  

Sligo Rovers boss John Russell has moved quickly in making his first new signing ahead of the 2026 season with the acquisition of midfielder Archie Meekison, the club are thrilled to confirm.  

News of the arrival of the 23-year-old arrives just days after Rovers secured Premier Division football for next year, following a decisive win over champions Shamrock Rovers at Tallaght Stadium. 

The Scot will officially link up with Rovers on December 1st having signed a pre-contract, just a few weeks ahead of pre-season training at the Showgrounds. 

A native of Edinburgh, Meekison honed his skills at Fife’s Kennoway United before moving to Dundee United at just six. He signed his first pro-deal in 2019 before spending time on loan at Cove Rangers, Spartans and Falkirk. He made his first team debut for Dundee at 18 in April 2021, scoring his first senior goal for the club just a few weeks later. 

After a 16 year stint with United, Meekison departed home in the summer of 2024 when he joined Bohs. He went on to make 29 league and two cup appearances for Alan Reynolds’ side, netting four times for the Dalymount outfit. 

His signature brings to 12, the number of players contracted for 2026.   

“There was interest from Rovers last year but I wanted to try and prove myself at Bohs”, Archie reveals. 

“But since this summer, myself, my agent and John have all kept in touch and I really appreciated how much John wanted to sign me. It’s always great to be wanted.

“When I had to make a decision as to where I was going in 2026, Sligo was always the answer.

“John seems confident and assured of how he wants his teams to play. He wants pace and excitement and I love that.” 

Meekison made his Bohs debut against Rovers in a two goal win for the Bit O’Red at Dalymount in July 2024, as a second half substitute. Almost 18 months in Irish football, he says he’s enjoying the fare so far. 

“It’s really high paced, intense and frantic at times. It’s very unpredictable. The fact that any team can beat any adds to it. It’s great for a player like me to be the difference maker. I’ve only been here a year and a half and have only lived in Dublin but Sligo seems more community focused and calmer. I hope to create really good relationships here with both fans and my team mates.” 

Talking about where he feels he can make the biggest impact on the pitch, Meekison says he’s at Rovers to bring goals and create chances for others.

“I’m at my best in the middle, picking up the ball in tight spaces and going at defenders with pace. I can also play off the wing too but I’m happy to go wherever I’m asked. I want to bring goals and assists and excite everyone.” 

When it comes to his ambition for 2026, Archie keeps it simple.

“I think our goal should be to win something! I think it’s important we get back to playing in Europe so targeting a European place would be the minimum expectation for me.” 

Speaking to sligorovers.com regarding his first new signing, Rovers boss Russell believes he’s secured the services of an extremely exciting talent. 

“Archie arrives here at the perfect time in his career”, Russell says. 

“He was excellent for Bohs when he got the chance but he probably didn’t get enough game time there to show his true potential. We believe the Showgrounds is the place where that potential is realised.

“He’s a creative player who I think will fit in well here. We require the type of player who can make things happen in the last third and Archie has the attributes we’re looking for to score goals and provide assists. 

“I’m delighted he’s decided to choose Sligo Rovers and we’re looking forward to working with him when we return for pre-season.” 

David Goulden 

The 2025 season had it all: excitement, emotion, and a finish that will live long in the memory. After months of challenge and drama, Sligo Rovers showed true character, securing safety on the final day. It was a reminder of what makes this club unique – the passion, belief, and loyalty of everyone connected to the Bit O’ Red.

Now the focus turns to 2026. A new season, a fresh start, and another chance to push forward together.

Why Choose a 2026 Season Ticket

Stand With Rovers: Every Season Ticket directly supports the team’s preparation for 2026. Your commitment helps the club plan, strengthen, and continue building both on and off the pitch.

Simple, Fair Pricing for 2026 (Men’s Team)

Adult: €300
OAP: €220
Third Level Student: €220
Second Level Student: €180
Super Reds: €100
Family Bundle A (1 Adults + 2 Children): €450
Family Bundle B (2 Adult + 2 Children): €720

Women’s Team Season Ticket

€50 standalone
€25 add-on for existing Men’s Season Ticket holders

Early Access and Matchday Benefits

• Priority access to high-demand fixtures including friendlies and cup ties
• Direct support for club operations during the off-season
• Priority access if capacity is reduced during stadium redevelopment in the 2027 season

Gold Season Ticket – Your Seat, Your Space

For supporters seeking added comfort, the Gold Season Ticket (€70 add-on) guarantees your chosen seat for every home League match. Make the Showgrounds your own every weekend.

A Club That Belongs to Its Community

Sligo Rovers is more than a football club. Every Season Ticket helps sustain projects that keep the club connected to its roots in the North West:

• Academy: Developing local talent and future stars
• DS Futsal Team: Promoting inclusion and opportunity
• Walking Football: Keeping older adults active and involved
• Rovers Integration Team: Bringing communities together through football

Where to Buy

Available online and from:

Showgrounds Megastore: Monday to Saturday, 11am–5pm

Barton Smiths, Sligo
Lavin’s Menswear, Ballymote
Collery’s Shop, Beltra
Jerry Kenny Sport, Ballina
John Lowe, Carrick-on-Shannon
Kelly Centra, Gurteen

Supporting the Club Beyond the Season Ticket

500 Club

• Membership from €20 per month (€240 annually)
• Monthly prize draws including €500 for the top winner
• Over €2 million raised since 2003 and reinvested directly into the club

Club Lotto

• Weekly draws every Monday night
• Cash prizes up to €30,000 plus runner-up rewards

Annual Voluntary Donation
A €100 voluntary donation helps sustain the club and fund community programmes during the off-season.

Every ticket, every draw, every contribution keeps Sligo Rovers strong.
Our club. Our history. Our future.

Buy your 2026 Season Ticket here: (Link)

Sligo Rovers confirm the appointment of Shane Crossan as the club’s new General Manager.

Crossan has held several key roles within the organisation in recent years, including Media and Marketing Officer and, most recently, Head of Operations. His appointment represents a natural progression and acknowledges his significant contribution to the club’s ongoing development.

This appointment coincides with Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Feakins, who will leave his position following a planned transition in the coming months. During his tenure, Feakins placed a strong emphasis on enhancing the club’s commercial performance, expanding sponsorship and partnership opportunities, and supporting the growth of the club’s business activities. The club extends its sincere thanks to him for his professionalism, commitment, and valued contribution.

The appointment of Crossan marks an important step in Sligo Rovers’ continued evolution. His leadership and experience will ensure strong continuity across the club’s day-to-day operations, while the ongoing recruitment of a Commercial Manager will focus on driving sponsorship and partnership growth as part of the club’s wider development plans.

Sligo Rovers now turn their focus to preparations for the upcoming season, approaching the future with confidence and ambition as the club continues to grow and strengthen on and off the pitch

Sligo Rovers picked up a first win against Shamrock Rovers at Tallaght Stadium in nine attempts as a wonderful performance from the Bit O’Red saw the visitors pick up the points required to avoid the relegation play-off spot. 

Ollie Denham’s first goal for the club could not have arrived at a more important time as his header from a deflected Ryan O’Kane shot flew past stand-in Hoops goalkeeper Lee Steacy. 

Owen Elding’s 53rd minute penalty was followed by a consolation goal from Shams’ full back Adam Matthews, but Rovers held on to secure their most vital three points of the season. 

The result means Rovers finish the season in a hugely respectable seventh spot, having picked up 29 points from 18 games played after the mid-season break. 

Facing the newly-crowned champions, Rovers were forced into a late change at left full, with prospect Kyle McDonagh replacing Sean Stewart in the starting eleven after the Belfast man sustained a knock in the warm up. 

Indeed, Rovers were disrupted by injury again on the quarter and half hour when midfield pair James McManus and Seb Quirk were withdrawn through knocks. 

Despite this, Sligo went at their hosts, as promised by manager John Russell in his pre-match comments. 

Goal-scorer Denham tested Steacy early on with a speculative effort from 30 yards after Shams failed to clear a short corner. Will Fitzgerald, one of Rovers’ most consistent players this term and leading by example again on Saturday, delivered a sumptuous ball on to the head of O’Kane on 13 minutes. But the on loan winger could only nod straight into the arms of the grateful Steacy as Rovers continued to carve open the champions. 

The deserved lead arrived on 38 minutes when O’Kane’s attempt at goal looped into the air courtesy of a touch off a defender. Denham was quickest off the mark to rise and head the wayward ball beyond Stacey for his first goal for the club.

Jad Hakiki enjoyed another stellar showing in red and along with Fitzgerald was involved in Rovers’ second when they combined to send O’Kane into the Shamrock penalty area. O’Kane’s run abruptly brought to an end when Lee Grace stepped across the Dubliner’s path, resulting in referee Rob Hennessy awarding the spot kick which Elding dispatched. 

Again buoyed and backed by a huge travelling support, Rovers were pinned back for a short time after Stephen Bradley emptied his bench, introducing experience in the shape of Dylan Watts, Matt Healy and Roberto Lopes around the same time as the Dubliners halved Rovers’ lead. 

Full back Matthews blasting an impressive drive from distance off Sam Sargeant’s post and beyond the Rovers net-minder on 62. 

Sargeant had to be on his game for the final half hour and pulled off a wonderful acrobatic stop on 68 minutes when Matt Healy’s cushioned effort looked like it might sail over the Englishman. 

Well marshalled by a well organised Rovers back line, Shams could only come up with half-chances as a disciplined Rovers held on for a season defining result. 

The final result of the season sees Rovers finish on 41 points in seventh, while Waterford head into the promotion/relegation play-off. Cork City are relegated.

Shamrock Rovers: Lee Steacy, Adam Matthews (Roberto Lopes, 64), Lee Grace, Egor Vssenin; Sean Kavanagh (Dylan Watts, 64), Darragh Nugent, Trevor Clarke, Cian Barrett, Aaron McEneff (Matt Healy, 64); Graham Burke (Danny Grant, 77), John McGovern (Michael Noonan, 86).

Sligo Rovers: Sam Sargeant; Edwin Agbaje (Conor Reynolds, 71), Ollie Denham, Patrick McClean, Kyle McDonagh; Seb Quirk (Daire Patton, 31), James McManus (Ciaron Harkin, 16); Will Fitzgerald, Jad Hakiki, Ryan O’Kane (Cian Kavanagh, 71); Owen Elding.

Referee: Rob Hennessy.

David Goulden