Longford Town FC announce the departure of U19 manager Mark Connors

Mark Connors - I have stepped down due to work and other commitments

"I will be assisting the new manager in the transitional period. Obviously it has been a very difficult decision and hasn’t been an overnight thing, but when I can't give something 100%, I don't think it's fair on the players or the club to pretend I can or I will. I would like to thank all the U19 staff that worked with me, particularly Derek who has been tremendous for me, without whom I could never have even had the chance to work at such a great club. All the staff, coaching, admin and committee within the club who work tirelessly everyday and seldom get recognition, who made my life easier. Every player that we worked with in our time for their effort and respect. And finally Tony Cousins, who gave me the opportunity at such a young age, trusted me, supported me and taught me more about the game in three years than I learnt in my thirteen years previous. I wish the new manager the very best of luck and look forward to working with him in the interim. When I came in I was told it was a 'family' club, I can assure people it's even more than that!"

First team Manager, Tony Cousins said:

“I’d just like to thank Mark for his service to the club. When I appointed Mark to the role of U19 manager it was with the view to improving the standard of player coming through and ensuring that these players would be good enough to train with and progress into the senior squad. That has happened last season and this season we are seeing the results of Mark’s efforts in that area. I wish Mark success in his future roles.”

Longford Town FC wish to express the gratitude of everybody at the club to Mark for his professionalism and dedication to his role and wish him every success in his new venture. Mark will be staying on for a short period to assist the new U19 manager settle in. We are pleased to announce that Wayne Groves is the new U19 manager. Wayne has spent thirteen years coaching at St. Kevin’s Boys FC and has also coached teams for the DDSL. The club look forward to the start of Wayne’s career with De Town and welcome him to the City Calling Stadium.