Supporters Trust gains voice on Dundalk FC management committee

A representative of the Dundalk FC Supporters Trust is set to take a place on the newly established Dundalk FC management committee, following an invitation from executive director Chris Clinton.

The committee—positioned beneath the board of directors at Oriel Park—was announced more than a month ago, shortly after Mr Clinton was proclaimed the club’s new majority shareholder.

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While the committee’s full membership has yet to be made public, The Democrat understands that Tony McBride is poised to take up the Trust’s seat.

Additional positions are expected to be filled by individuals bringing a broad range of expertise, including Alan Farrelly (accounting), Adrian Corcoran (infrastructure), David Farrelly (communications), David Kieran (branding), and Joe McGuinness (formerly of Louth County Council).

A correspondence sent to Trust members on Friday, signed by chair Gerry Lennon, stated: “The Trust is happy to communicate that we have accepted a recent offer from Dundalk FC to appoint a Trust representative to the club’s management committee.

“We would like to thank Chris Clinton for this offer, and we look forward to a successful working relationship, and representing the voice of our members.

“We would like to once again thank you for your efforts to date, and ask that you encourage even one person to join the Trust in the coming weeks. Your continued support is greatly appreciated.”

A day earlier, Dundalk reported significant progress on the installation of its new playing surface at Oriel, with the €70,000 drawdown required to kick-start the project met by the Trust, while the remaining cost is being covered through the Sports Capital Grant awarded in September 2024.

Following completion of the base, work is now underway on the shock pad and synthetic turf. The shock pad, a key enhancement, offers improved impact absorption, more consistent ball movement, and a longer-lasting, environmentally efficient surface. Subject to favourable weather, the club hopes the pitch will be ready before Christmas.

The installation of new floodlights is set to commence in the New Year, while initiatives to modernise the toilet facilities and address long-standing drainage issues are also progressing, with funding to be provided by the Community Recognition Fund awarded in June.

A full CCTV survey and cleaning of the underground system will address recurring blockages and surface-water problems, with further infrastructure improvements planned for 2026.

The club is also exploring a visual refresh of Oriel, including painting and potential collaborations with local artists to enhance the matchday environment.

Meanwhile, on the pitch, Dundalk face a challenge in retaining Eoin Kenny, who is attracting attention from English League One sides Blackpool and Lincoln City, while also drawing interest from clubs in Scotland and Belgium.

The 19-year-old Northern Ireland U21 international, out of contract at Oriel and available on a free transfer, enjoyed a standout season as The Lilywhites secured the SSE Airtricity League First Division title, contributing 10 goals and eight assists.

Remarkably, 16 of those goal involvements came in his final 14 league appearances, a prolific run that also earned him five Northern Ireland U21 caps in 2025, further enhancing his profile and sparking interest from overseas clubs.

Kenny made a single appearance for Dundalk in 2023, featuring in the Leinster Senior Cup, before making his breakthrough following a productive loan spell at Wexford.

In 2024, he scored twice in 25 Premier Division appearances for The Lilywhites and attracted interest from Blackburn Rovers and Reading. Ultimately, he opted to sign on for another season at Oriel, much to the delight of supporters who hope it will not be his last.

Dundalk’s first-team squad resumed training this month, with a full-time return planned after Christmas, while discussions over potential signings and contract renewals continue and will be announced in due course.

Season tickets for the 2026 season are now on sale, with prices rising by €50 across all categories compared to last year. Tickets can be purchased or renewed online at dundalkfc.com. Additionally, the club’s new home and away kits, designed by Macron, are also available for purchase.