Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce that Womens Under 19 defender Kate Nugent has agreed a long-term deal at Sligo Rovers through a scholarship with Atlantic Technological University. Nugent becomes the third player to join the newly formed University this week, following on from her team-mates Emma Doherty and Ciara Henry.

Each year, the University offers a limited number of Sligo Rovers players a fee-waiver scholarship which is matched by the club with support to the player throughout the seasons they are studying. Following the establishment of the Senior Women’s team at Sligo Rovers in September 2021, this is the first year the university will offer scholarships to both Senior Women’s and Senior Men’s players.

Kate joined the Club’s Academy in 2018 and has become a key figure in our Under 19 squad and will be looking to become part of the Senior set up in the coming seasons.

ATU is one of Ireland’s largest multi-campus universities with campuses across Sligo, Donegal, Mayo and Galway. The new university is built on the foundations of over 50 years in higher education and offers academic excellence and the opportunity to participate in sport at a national level.

Nugent completed her Leaving Certificate in June at The Ursuline Convent and will commence studying

Bit O’ Red Head of Academy Conor O’ Grady:

‘’We are delighted for Kate to be awarded this scholarship today. She has worked very hard over the last few years as part of our Academy system and will no doubt have a great future here at the club.

‘’This will only make ATU Sligo stronger as well that we’re able to keep these players in Sligo to study and play football and it’s a win for everyone.

‘’Kate will no doubt perform well both academically and on the pitch during her time at the University and we wish her well’’.

Nugent will also be part of ATU Sligo’s Senior Women’s team who will compete in the Third Level Colleges League and Cups throughout the academic year, which starts in the coming weeks.

Dr Chris O’Malley, Vice President, Research, Innovation & Engagement at ATU Sligo commented:

“The new Atlantic TU continues to support and promote talent within our region. Our partnership with sporting organisations, like Sligo Rovers, ensures that home-grown players can continue to follow their passion, whilst earning an excellent academic qualification at a local University. ATU is supportive of the Women’s Senior team players, ensuring equal opportunity and supports for soccer stars of the future, like Kate Nugent.”

FAI football facilitator at ATU Sligo, Colm Jinks, is delighted with the new addition to the Women’s Soccer club at the university:

‘’The partnership works for everyone – It is great to have a player of Kates ability here with us, not only at ATU Sligo but to continue their development at Sligo Rovers.

‘’The Senior Women’s team have done so well this year in their first ever season competing in The Women’s National League and we’ve no doubt Kate will in the future play a big part for them too.

‘’This shows that young girls coming through the club’s academy system will be given an opportunity at senior level and may also enhance their skills by gaining an excellent education at ATU Sligo’’.