COLERAINE FC can confirm a change of captaincy as Mark Coyle will now wear the armband on a permanent basis…
As the Bannsiders prepare for action on the domestic and European front, Ruaidhri Higgins has named Coyle as the club’s new captain.
Since arriving last January, the 29-year-old has quickly established himself as a key member of the first-team squad, where his leadership qualities have been evident from day one.
The midfielder is no stranger to the responsibility of wearing the captain’s armband as he skippered Shelbourne through one of the most successful periods in its recent history as they lifted the League of Ireland title in 2024.
As captain, Coyle will continue to drive the highest standards throughout the squad as the Bannsiders push for success in the 2026/27 season and beyond.
On the appointment, Higgins said: “Mark is a natural leader on and off the pitch.
“He leads by example in how he conducts his business on a day-to-day basis.
“He’s got that drive and mentality you need on the pitch, he’s won the League of Ireland as captain of Shelbourne, so he’s got that experience of getting over the line, which is invaluable.
“Our next step is to try and win a league title and having someone with the experience of doing that is really important.
“He will work very closely with me, and I know he’s well-respected by all his team-mates.
“I’m sure it’ll be an extremely proud moment for Mark, and I think it would be special if he could repeat what he done at Shelbourne with us as it would be a unique achievement.
“That’s the goal, that’s the ambition and we aren’t going to shy away from it.”
Thanking first-team manager Higgins for the opportunity, Coyle stated that it’s a huge honour to be the new captain in what is an exciting time for the club.
“It is a huge privilege for me and my family,” he added.
“I’ve loved every minute since I joined in January, it’s a great club with great people and I’m also aware of the size of the club and the fan base.
“It’s a challenge I’m extremely excited for and I can’t wait to get started.
“I’m grateful to Ruaidhri for having that belief in me and seeing me as a leader.
“I want to lead by example through setting standards day in and day out and having your own house in order before setting demands from anyone else.
“I think it was massive for us as a group to win the Irish Cup last season.
“It’s now in the past, we have so much to look forward to this season and it’s about putting that into action now.”
Coyle takes over the role from Lyndon Kane who was named as captain ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, helping the Bannsiders transition from part-time to full-time status.
His influence within the dressing room, around the club and in the local community remains as important as ever and he will continue to play an integral role as part of the first-team squad.
Higgins said: “Lyndon will very much be a strong part of our squad.
“In the business end of last season, Lyndon played with that free spirit and that’s what I want him to do. I want him to be free and enjoy his football and not carry any extra stress.
“He’s a Coleraine boy, this is his club and he’s a fantastic ambassador for the club.
“The new players will tell you he’s the first to help them settle in when they come through the door.
“Lifting the Irish Cup as Coleraine captain is something that nobody can ever take away from him.
“He deserved it given the service he’s given this football club and I’m sure it’ll be a memory he will carry for the rest of his life.”
Everyone at Coleraine FC congratulates Mark on being appointed as club captain and extends its thanks to Lyndon for his professionalism and commitment while wearing the armband.