New Year Message

COLIN McKendry has penned an open letter to supporters ahead of the New Year…

Dear Supporters;

It is a great privilege to write this open letter to you as we bid farewell to 2022.

After the challenges of COVID and the cost of living crisis, we are indebted to the support of you the fans and sponsors who have yet again been terrific throughout the calendar year.

Our crowds this season have been fantastic and we were proud to once again break our season ticket numbers for 2022/23 – so a massive thank you for that.

The atmosphere in recent weeks has been outstanding and I know Oran and the players appreciate that as it gives them an extra bit of motivation on a matchday.

After a difficult end to last season, Oran and the Board made the decision to freshen up the playing squad for the challenges ahead and I think we are now seeing the fruit of that labour.

Oran has signed a mixture of youth and experience, and despite taking a bit of time to gel, our recent results have been brilliant and we have a lot to look forward to in 2023.

The BetMcLean Cup final was obviously a disappointment this year but we have the chance to make that right in March and we also have the Irish Cup and North-West Senior Cup to tackle head on.

Oran has already made plans during the upcoming January transfer window and we are excited for the challenges ahead.

Furthermore, the Club was proud and honoured to be the first team from Northern Ireland to participate in the UEFA Youth League and what a run we had.

Marty Smith and his players did fantastically well to beat FK Pobeda from Macedonia and the experience gained from playing the ilk of KRC Genk will surely stand our U20’s in good stead moving forward.

I would like to place on record my thanks to all the coaches, volunteers and parents from all ages in our Youths set-up for their dedication and hard work.

The Club are always striving to better themselves off the pitch and we were pleased to submit a top class application for Levelling Up funds. We believe improving the facilities at The Showgrounds will not only be to our benefit, but for the benefit of the whole community and we are eagerly awaiting the decision at the end of January.

I would like to express my gratitude towards members in our bidding team for their high level of professionalism and dedication, as well as to those who have pledged their support for our plans.

We recently renovated the McKendry Suite at the Social Club and I was pleased to see so many people enjoying a pint and catching up friends and family over the festive period. All of our Social Club staff work extremely hard to provide the best customer service.

This is also extended to the Club Shop staff who I know had a busy Christmas period as stock and merchandise was extremely popular as presents. It is very seldom I go down into Coleraine town centre or in Portush and Portstewart without seeing Coleraine clothing, so once again, I would like to thank you for continuing to back us.

Furthermore, the Club wouldn’t be able to operate without our excellent volunteers who give up so much of their time on a daily basis to make everything as smooth as possible. From stewards to the gate men and media team and everything in between, we are truly blessed to have individuals who all want the best for Coleraine FC.

Our sponsors have once again been the backbone of the club and we are thankful for their support, as well as to those who sponsor a match, ball and mascot at every home game. I would encourage our supporters to support those who help us.

I wish you, your family and the extended Irish League family a very happy 2023.

Stay safe and thanks for reading:

Colin McKendry