Ballyclare Comrades FC have an exciting new opening within the backroom coaching team for a First Team Strength & Conditioning Coach on a voluntary basis.
A brilliant opportunity for an individual who is passionate about strength and conditioning coaching and is looking to develop their skillset. Working alongside a passionate team within an established Irish League club that is continually developing.
To apply and discuss the role further, please email [email protected]
The deadline for applications is ongoing and discussions will be arranged at the earliest possible opportunity.
Ballyclare Comrades FC is delighted to announce the formation of Ballyclare Comrades Ladies, following an amalgamation with Carnmoney Ladies FC. This exciting news has been in the pipeline for a number of months, with officials from both clubs working closely together to plan for the new venture. As of 1 January 2022, Carnmoney Ladies FC ceases to exist, and all previous Carnmoney teams become Ballyclare Comrades Ladies.
Ballyclare Comrades Ladies section includes two senior teams, competing in NIWFA Divisions 1 and 2 respectively, while the girls academy fields teams from Under 16 to Under 6, and will compete in competitions such as the SBYL Girls League, IFA East Antrim Girls GDP, IFA East Antrim Boys GDP, Fonacab Development Programme and the Belfast Swifts Development Programme.
The Senior Ladies teams will be managed by JP Coogan, providing continuity from his previous role at Carnmoney Ladies. The NIWFA 2022 league season begins in April, and we are excited to see the girls wearing the red of Ballyclare Comrades at Dixon Park.
Reacting to the announcement, Steven Lowry, the Chairman of the new Comrades Ladies section commented: “When this opportunity arose to join the Comrades, it was too good of an offer to refuse. It’s a great opportunity for the club, we have such a rich history over the last ten years”.
Comrades Ladies Manager, JP Coogan, commented: “Coming in to a NIFL club gives us better opportunities to progress both on and off the pitch. We now have much better facilities at Dixon Park which will hopefully help us to progress up the divisions”.
Trevor McCann, Chairman of Ballyclare Comrades Mens section commented: “I think it’s fantastic for Ballyclare Comrades Football Club. In our 102-year-history, we’ve never had a Ladies team and so it’s great to now bring Carnmoney Ladies on board. I believe it is the correct way forward for our great club and I wish everyone involved the best of luck”.
Comrades Mens First Team Manager, Paul Harbinson, commented: “It’s something we have been working on for a long time as part of the development process over the last number of years and I’m extremely excited for the club”.
Ballyclare Comrades FC can confirm that Howard Beverland has departed the club to sign for Portadown FC.
The defender, who previously enjoyed a 14 year spell in the Danske Bank Premiership, joined the Comrades at the beginning of this 21/22 season and made 16 appearances during his short spell at the club.
“Howard was the consummate professional in all of his dealings throughout his time at the club,” said Paul Harbinson. “A real warrior on the pitch but a true gentleman off it. We wish him well and would never stand in the way of a player wanting to return to premier league football.”
Howard’s departure follows the news of both Joe Tully and Gary Donnelly also leaving the club as they joined Ards FC yesterday.
Everyone involved with Ballyclare Comrades FC wishes Howard the very best as he returns to the Danske Bank Premiership.
Ballyclare Comrades is pleased to announce the signing of experienced Irish League forward, Michael Smith.
The 29-year-old joins the Comrades from Dundela after spending the past 4 seasons with Danske Bank Premiership side, Carrick Rangers.
“I’m very happy to be here,” said Michael Smith. “I’m really looking forward to getting on the pitch and playing games and hopefully bringing the goals to push us up the table. After speaking with Paul, I didn’t want to go anywhere else.”
“We’re delighted to get a player of Michael’s quality over the line,” said Paul Harbinson. “I know a lot of clubs were interested in him so for him to choose to come here is fantastic for us. I’ve known him for a few years and know he is a great professional who will add a real goal threat to our ranks.”
Michael will wear the number 9 shirt for the Comrades. Want to show support for Michael? You can sponsor him for £20 for this season and you will get your name/business listed beside Michael on our Sponsor A Player page, as well as a photo opportunity with him. You can sponsor Michael here.
