Sligo Rovers are delighted to announce that Kelsey McQuillan has agreed to join the club ahead of the 2026 season. The Kildare native becomes the third new addition to the 2026 squad, signing her first senior contract after progressing through the Bohemians academy set-up.
A defender capable of playing at both centre-back and right-back, Kelsey makes the move to the North-West, having spent three years under Gavin Hughes at academy level with Bohemians before a two-year stint in Tallaght. Two years ago, she returned to Phibsborough, linking up with Hughes once more. Having known Gavin for seven years through her time in the Bohemians academy, she was drawn to reuniting with him at Sligo Rovers.
Kelsey made her senior debut for Bohemians last season, coming off the bench against Shelbourne in the All-Island Cup, and was also part of the Bohemians academy side that lifted the FAI Cup in 2025, playing a key role at underage level in last season’s 2–0 victory over Treaty United. She now links up with former teammate Abby Rooney, becoming the second player from that cup-winning squad to join the Bit O’Red.
Speaking to sligorovers.com, Kelsey described signing her first senior contract as a major milestone in her career.
“I’m delighted to be signing my first senior contract with Sligo Rovers. Being able to play senior football on a weekly basis is a massive opportunity for me.”
On the chance to work with Gavin Hughes once again, the defender emphasised how influential he was on her decision.
“I’m really looking forward to working with Gav again. He spoke to me about his plans for the season and I really bought into them. From playing under him before, I know exactly what he can bring to a team.”
When asked about what she brings to the squad, Kelsey added:
“I’d say I’m a very physical and fast player. I’m also a good communicator on and off the pitch and can step up as a leader when needed.”
Rovers manager Gavin Hughes believes Kelsey’s development and mentality make her an important addition to the squad ahead of the new season.
“Over the last few years at academy level, Kelsey has shown real consistency in her personal development, both on and off the pitch. She’s positive, coachable, and consistently looking to improve. Her mindset is exactly what we are looking for at Rovers,” Hughes said.
“She has a strong desire to succeed and an equally strong commitment to the team’s success. On the pitch, she will show the fans her competitiveness, bravery, and willingness to do whatever it takes to help the team. Kelsey is a defender who can operate both as a centre-back and as a full-back. Her versatility and adaptability will be a real strength for us, and throughout the season we are likely to see her feature across the back line depending on team needs at any particular time.”
Kelsey McQuillan becomes the eighth signing announced for Sligo Rovers’ 2026 Women’s Premier Division squad, joining Abby Rooney, Ava Hallinan, Alice Lillie, Bonnie McKiernan, Emma Duffy, Leah Kelly, and Anna McDaniel.
Jack Dempsey