Ballymena United Football CLUB NEWS

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 Ballymena United is pleased to announce that defender Daithí McCallion has signed a contract extension with the club to 2029.

The 20-year-old joined United from Derry City on an initial short term loan deal in January 2024 before his stay was made permanent that summer. McCallion has gone on to make 80 appearances for the Sky Blues to date and has been one of the standout performers over the course of the current campaign.

Reflecting on his contract extension, Daithí said, "I'm delighted to extend my stay with the club. From the day I arrived, I've been made to feel really welcome by everyone involved. The club have put their faith in me and that's what you're always looking for and I'm in an environment now to help me kick on."

He added, "I've loved working with Oran. I feel he can get the best out of me and he is keen to help me develop and grow at this age. That excites me."

Oran Kearney also noted the importance of keeping Daithí at the Showgrounds. "We want to keep good players at the club and since I've come in, Daithí's been exceptional. His maturity is well beyond his age and it now shows.

"I'm starting to see a great level of consistency from him on the pitch, but his all round level of attitude and application is brilliant and he's an example for the other young players." 

  Ballymena United players, supporters and staff join forces to help Paul Ross raise £90,000 for charity in memory of lifelong Sky Blues supporter Lydia Ross.

Air Ambulance NI has received approximately £90,000 from fans of Ballymena United Football Club, after the Sky Blues joined forces with the club staff and players to launch a fundraising campaign in the wake of the passing of a lifelong Ballymena United fan. 

When Ballymena United supporters learned of the tragic loss of fellow fan Paul Ross’s daughter Lydia in 2023, they approached the club with a number of ideas to support the Ross family. 

Backed by Ballymena United players and officials, the fans, led by Paul, launched a fundraising campaign for Air Ambulance NI in memory of Lydia. 

A ribbon becomes a kit

The story begins with something small. In the aftermath of Lydia’s tragic passing, Paul was given a sky blue ribbon badge, the club colour of Ballymena United, and a reference to the club’s long-standing anthem - “She wore a sky blue ribbon” - by a friend who was working with the club at the time. 

The ribbon badges were then sold to supporters and staff for charity, with the intention of wearing them in Lydia’s memory. When Paul posted on social media about the cause, the response was immediate and overwhelming. The badges became a symbol of hope and solidarity, and became hugely popular across other clubs in the Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL). 

But it was the club’s next step that transformed the campaign entirely.

Ballymena United approached Paul about producing a special sky blue ribbon charity kit - a shirt that would carry Lydia’s memory onto the pitch and into homes across Northern Ireland and beyond. The club asked for Paul’s blessing before going any further. 

“The kit’s absolutely beautiful," Paul said, “Of course I said yes, I would be honoured.”

The launch proved one of the most powerful moments of the entire campaign. The full Ballymena United squad turned out, all wearing the shirt made in Lydia’s honour, alongside Paul and his family. A portion of proceeds from every kit sold goes directly to Air Ambulance NI, and it has proved to be the most popular Ballymena United shirt of all time, with replica shirts being sold across the world from the United States to Australia.

United together 

The cause has garnered support from across Ballymena United and the wider community, said Paul.

“The whole Irish League family has been brilliant,” Paul said, “It’s a very close-knit community. Everyone knows everyone, and supports one another. This would not have taken off the way it did if it wasn’t for the support of the management and board at our beloved club.”

In Paul’s case, this sense of family has translated into real, impactful action. Fundraising efforts to date have been extremely varied, with activities including everything from the auctioning of gift baskets of sweets, to quiz nights, to a dedicated 72-hole golf ‘marathon’ at Galgorm Golf Club featuring some well-known local sporting personalities such as former Northern Ireland internationals Steven Davis and Stuart Dallas. 

More recently, Paul and a group of friends who regularly attend matches together walked the 28 miles from Ballymena to Coleraine on match day, in a sponsored walk dubbed the ‘Derby Day Dander’ which drew support from everyone, including Henry Ross, the executive Chairman of rivals Coleraine, who joined the full walk. Along with a successful recent Bingo Bonanza night, these two events alone have raised a staggering combined total of £40,000 - a result that has both shocked and touched Paul and his family.

“The sky blue ribbon really caught people’s imagination. People are coming to me with ideas now for more things we could do - the Ballymena United fans have been so brilliant. People are good. I still find it truly amazing,” he admitted.

“It costs somewhere around five or six thousand pounds to send an air ambulance up once,” Paul explained. “That’s maybe twelve or fifteen times we’ve helped to send it up through the sky blue ribbon campaign - potentially twelve or fifteen lives might be saved by our efforts.”

Air Ambulance Northern Ireland, in partnership with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, continues to be a lifeline for communities across the province, offering critical Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) that operates seven days a week, twelve hours a day. On average, the medical team is called upon twice daily to respond to a range of incidents, including serious road traffic collisions, farm or workplace accidents, sport and leisure incidents, and medical emergencies.

Kerry Anderson, Head of Fundraising at Air Ambulance NI spoke about the club’s dedication:

“Every day, our service is called upon to assist, on average, two individuals in critical need. This vital work is made possible only through the generosity and commitment of supporters like those at Ballymena United FC. I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the club for their dedication to our charity, which plays a crucial role in saving lives, and for the meaningful tributes that have so thoughtfully commemorated Lydia.”

If one moment captures what this campaign has meant, it came on the pitch in August.

During the first match of the season at Glenavon, and the first outing of the new shirt, Ballymena midfielder Donal Rocks, Paul notes, a player not known for his goals - struck the decisive goal from 40 yards out. It flew in and is widely regarded already as a contender for the ‘Goal of the Season’. Donal ran straight to Paul, standing in the front row of the stand.

“The sun shone,” Paul recalled. “He ran over to me and kissed the ribbon on the shirt. It felt like a sign.”

It’s the kind of moment that only happens when a club and a supporter have become something more than the usual relationship between a team and its fans. For Paul Ross, Ballymena United has not just honoured Lydia’s memory - it has helped carry it forward. 

“This club has always believed that football means more than just the ninety minutes,” added Ballymena United chairman Chris Selwood. “Working with Paul to support him felt like the most natural thing in the world and we wanted to put the full weight of the club behind what Paul and his family. Lydia was a loyal supporter of the club, and we’re honoured to support the Ross family with this campaign.”  

   William's give and take on Sports Bond 

Last week, Sports Bond agent Julie Moore called with William Gillespie (A5995) and collected £50 for his subscription. Julie will now be taking a £50 cheque back to William as he was a Major winner! Nice one William. Our Sports Bond agents do a wonderful job and it is a credit to them. With the rising cost of fuel we would appeal to members to increase their subscriptions like William so that Agents spend less time on collecting membership dues and save on fuel prices.

The other Major winner this week was Iris Smyth (C 0842) who lives in the Ballee area. Iris has been a long time member of Sports Bond, as can be indicated by her winning numbers which have the prefix C. There are only a handful of C numbers still in Sports Bond. We are delighted Iris has won after her  last win which was a £10 win two years ago. Iris does a lot of volunteering work within the community and is a member on the agency of Patricia Thompson, who also had a £10 Minor winner with another lady member, Catherine McAuley (A 8833),

Tracey Hughes (A6889), a one time £1000 Jackpot winner, picked up another £10 Minor prize. The remaining £10 Minor winner was Nathaniel Balmer (A1339) on the agency of Maurice Anderson. 

The Jackpot numbers of 14 23 24 27 saw no winner allocated and so the Jackpot for this week is now £250.

As we approach our 25th anniversary, there never was a better time to join! To join, please ring 07831 803970. It is a testament to our organisation that we are looking forward to celebrating the occasion later in the year.

                                                      Agents News 

Congratulations to Sports Bond member Kenny Allen and his wife Sylvia as they celebrated another wedding anniversary. 

Congratulations to Sports Bond member Trevor Gillan and wire Barbara who are now proud Grandparents of triplets: 2 boys and a girl. 

Both members are on the agency of Maurice Anderson. 

Belated birthday greetings to Sports Bond member Adrian McCart who celebrated a significant Birthday whilst in Tenerife with wife Nicole 

First Score 

In the Carabao Cup final between Arsenal and Manchester City, the winning First Score time was 60 minutes and one winner has been found so far: Marie Hall, sister of Sports Bond agent Sammy Bones. Marie was a winner of our New Year's Draw in 2025.  On this occasion, Marie picked up £50 .

First Score will be back at the Showgrounds on Saturday 4th April for the game with Bangor. 

                                                                 CASH CALL 

Andy Millar (photographed), proprietor of the Diamond Bar in Ahoghill, was presented with his £1000 cheque for winning this year's CASH CALL. Andy celebrated with a round of golf and possibly a celebration at the Diamond Bar. Congratulations Andy!

Ballymena United travel to north Belfast for their final game before the split when they face Cliftonville at Solitude in an 8pm kick-off on Saturday night.

United go into the final game of the regular season off the back of a huge three points last weekend in a win over Carrick Rangers. In the final game of four in a row at the Showgrounds, the Sky Blues picked up a 2-1 success, thanks to Igor Rutkowski's quick fire brace. After a somewhat uninspiring first half, Rutkowski finished off brilliant work from Kian Corbally midway through the second half, before adding a second from the penalty spot five minutes later. Carrick pulled one back from the spot, despite replays showing the perceived handball hit David Toure on the chest, outside the box, but United saw it out thanks to last gasp save from Brad Wade.

The win saw the Braidmen finally relinquish tenth spot in the table, as they dislodged Bangor from the place above them on goal difference, with eighth placed Portadown now just two points away. In terms of those behind, Glenavon's win over Crusaders saw them match the Crues' total and both clubs now trail United by eight points, as the split looms.

Rutkowski's double took the forwards tally to eight league goals since his January arrival, an incredible return for the former Armagh City man from his ten league games. It was Igor's third brace, adding to those against Crusaders and Saturday's opponents Cliftonville, plus strikes at both Glentoran and Linfield. Therefore, last weekend's goals were the first the forward had scored against a side situated outside of Belfast, as he broadened his exceptional goalscoring horizons. Rutkowski is now three clear as United's top league scorer, with Corbally sat behind him, in a remarkable feat for the Keady native, who has already endeared himself to the home faithful.

The Reds have had an incredible workload so far this month, somehow managing to fit in six games in March already, in a relentless schedule. Jim Magilton's men played on Wednesday night, when they went down to Glentoran in a 3-0 loss at the BetMcLean Oval. That followed a narrow 1-0 loss last weekend at Coleraine and whilst United have had home comforts for four straight games, Solitude will feel alien to the Reds, who have been on the road in their last five games in all competitions. Their last home fixture was on the opening day of the month, when they recorded a 2-0 win over Champions Linfield.

After a slow start to the campaign, Cliftonville have climbed the ladder steadily and have secured a top six finish, currently sitting fifth. The gap to the top four is an almost insurmountable one, with Cliftonville and Dungannon set to battle it out for fifth and sixth. The Reds are also still in the hunt for a third straight Irish Cup final appearance, with victory over Loughgall taking them into the final four, when a showdown with the Swifts awaits.

A couple of weeks into 2026 was the last time United and Cliftonville met, when Rutkowski netted his previously mentioned debut double in a 2-2 draw. Twice United led, in either half, but twice they were pegged back, to see the spoils shared. 

The previous meeting to take place at Solitude was a highly controversial one back in September. When trailing 2-1, United were reduced to ten men in a case of mistaken identity as Stephen O'Donnell was wrongly sent off, but after Aaron Jarvis looked to have rescued a late point, United were left heartbroken when Jack Keaney scored a free kick deep in added time to make it 3-2 to the hosts.

Saturday's victory was a big step in the right direction for the Braidmen and they head to the capital at an unusual time on Saturday evening looking to build up momentum heading into the split. 

Match Preview by Phillip McPeake

Ballymena United and Playr-Fit have teamed up to bring supporters a brand-new

spring leisurewear collection.

The 2026 Spring Collection is built for Ballymena United fans who represent the

Sky Blues wherever they go. From the terraces to the town, there’s something in

this range for every supporter.

Here’s what’s available at www.skyblue-superstore.co.uk

• The Anthem Jacket comes in two colours; a crisp white and a classic sky blue both priced at £45. Sharp, versatile, and unmistakably United.

• The Retro Softshell (£45) and Retro Hoody (£45) tap into that old-school Ballymena feel with a modern finish. These are the kind of pieces that never go out of style.

• The McBurney Transport Retro 80’s Shirt at £50. A nod to the club’s heritage and the latest remake of the shirts of yesteryear.

• Rounding out the collection is the All Navy 1/4 Zip at £40; the perfect everyday layer for any time of year.

And if that wasn’t enough, we’ve got a special deal running alongside the launch:

all current-season away replica shirts are now available at half price until the end

of the season at just £25. If you haven’t picked one up yet, now’s your chance.

The full collection is available now through the club’s official shop and online

store. Sizes are limited, so don’t sleep on it.

Come on Sky Blues.
     

  Ballymena United, one of the leading clubs in the Sports Direct Premiership, has appointed communications consultancy Clearbox to support the team’s marketing and communications campaigns. 

Clearbox will support Ballymena United on the development and implementation of a new communications strategy, brand positioning and key messages. Clearbox will also support Ballymena United through a digital marketing campaign, designed to increase match ticket sales.

The Clearbox team brings a wealth of experience to Ballymena United. The Clearbox team will be led by Neil Coleman, former Head of Communications and Digital Innovation at the Northern Ireland Football League, and John Megaughin, who has worked with sporting organisations like the Professional Darts Corporation, FIFA, UEFA and the International Olympic Committee.

Speaking on the appointment, Ballymena United Chairman Chris Selwood said: “Ballymena United is on a mission to become one of the leading sports organisations in the UK and Ireland. After emerging from financial difficulty two years ago, we’re now debt-free, ambitious and building something special. As a club with the best facilities in the league, we want partners who are the best at what they do and that’s why we’ve partnered with Clearbox.

“The agency works with some of the biggest brands in the world, and has a unique understanding of communications in sport. We’re excited to be working with Clearbox and have already seen the impact of their professionalism, knowledge and creativity.”

Clearbox’s Neil Coleman added: “Having spent years at the heart of Northern Ireland football communications, I know exactly what it takes to cut through in this space. Ballymena United is a club with real history, a passionate fanbase, and a board that's genuinely driving the club forward. Working with our Clearbox team to help deliver that vision is something I'm really looking forward to. We know this league, we know these fans, and we know how to get results.”

John Megaughin from Clearbox said: “Neil and I have spent our lives on the Ballymena terraces, so to be stepping inside the club in a professional capacity is something genuinely special. Ballymena United is a giant of the Irish League and a club that's clearly on the move with a board that means business. We're honoured to be partnering with Chris, Liam and the team to build on that momentum, and we're confident we can make a real difference on and off the pitch.”
 

Clearbox is a leading communications consultancy that’s spent many years delivering standout communications for clients across local, national, and global markets. Clearbox reframes brand and business challenges to spark long-term innovation, and its team works with curiosity, creativity, and delivers seriously impactful results. Clearbox’s current clients include Amazon, AWS, Deliveroo, Morelli’s Ice Cream, Ring, SistersIN, The NI Wedding Director, Toast and WellFest.

For further information, please contact BUFC@clearboxcommunications.com

Ballymena United Football Club is pleased to announce the appointment of Philip Kyle to its Board of Directors.

Philip brings extensive football administration experience and professional expertise to the role, having served as Chairman of the Club's Management Committee since 2023. His appointment to the Board represents a natural progression following his significant contributions to the development of the Club over the past two years.

A passionate supporter of the club, he has been actively involved with both the Youth Academy and Senior Club for 19 years across two separate spells. Additionally, his experience spans roles at NIFL Championship clubs including Ballyclare Comrades, where he served as Director and as part of the backroom staff (2021-2022), and Dundela (2022-2023), providing him with valuable insight into football operations across different levels of football in Northern Ireland.

Professionally, Philip serves as an Asset Performance Engineer at NI Water, where he has held senior management positions. His expertise in corporate governance, budget management, and project delivery will prove invaluable to the Club's continued development.

Philip Kyle commented: "I am honoured to join the Board of Directors at Ballymena United Football Club. This club has been a huge part of my life, and I am committed to using my experience both in football administration and my professional career to help drive the Club forward. I'm excited to contribute to achieving the ambitious goals we have set for Ballymena United's future."

Chris Selwood, Chairman of Ballymena United Football Club, said: "We are delighted to welcome Philip to the Board. His dedication to Ballymena United is unquestionable, and he brings a unique combination of football knowledge and corporate governance expertise that will strengthen our Board as we continue to build for the future. His appointment reflects our commitment to having people who are passionate about this Club and its future in key positions."

The appointment takes effect immediately.

Ballymena United’s current Board of Directors is as follows; Chris Selwood (Chair), Liam Wilson (Vice-Chair), John Anderson, Gary McConnell, Ronnie McDowell, Emma Russell, Ivan Russell. 

"The plans Oran and the Board have for the place, where they want to go and how they want to do things, they really interested me to come here" 

Hear from Fuad Sule for the first time as a Sky Blue following his recent arrival at United...

https://youtu.be/GnUJ-_6-Mt0

Ballymena United were delighted to complete the deadline day signing of Fuad Sule from Indonesian club Peris Solo.

The talented 29-year-old midfielder has been regarded as one of the top talents in the Irish League over recent seasons, having starred for both Glentoran and Larne, winning the Gibson Cup in 2023 with the Inver Park club.

Pending international clearance, Fuad will be available for selection for Tuesday’s re-arranged Premiership game with Crusaders at the Showgrounds.

(Our thanks to Darren Crawford for kindly capturing these photographs).

Ballymena United is thrilled to announce the signing of defender Shane McEleney from Glentoran.

The 34 year old arrives on Warden Street having spent a year at the Oval, where he made 27 appearances for Declan Devine's side. 

Following a successful six year spell with hometown club Derry City, Shane's career has taken him to St Pat's, Ottawa Fury, Larne, Finn Harps and back to Derry City, before his time in East Belfast.

Shane will join up with his brother, Patrick, at the Showgrounds and will be available for selection for the home game with Portadown this coming weekend.

Speaking to the club for the first time after confirming his signing, Shane said: "I'm delighted to get this over the line and have a fresh start. I had a conversation with Oran and Liam and obviously Patrick too. They were excited to get me in and I was excited to join."

McEleney brings a wealth of quality and experience both on and off the pitch and is keen to add that to our squad: "I just want to be playing football matches and helping the team. I'm an experienced player and I want to use that to help the younger players. It's a young, enthusiastic squad with a few senior pros and I can add to that and hopefully help kick us on. There's a lot to play for and I'm looking forward to getting started."

Ballymena United Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Oran Kearney as the club's new first team manager.

Kearney brings a wealth of managerial experience to the club from his successful spells at Limavady United, Coleraine and St. Mirren.

The 47-year-old also returns to the Ballymena Showgrounds, having enjoyed a successful spell as a player under Kenny Shiels, making 121 appearances and scoring 34 goals between 2002 and 2005.

Joining Oran's backroom team will be former Cliftonville midfielder Barry Johnston, who takes up the role of assistant manager, having recently been in charge of Lisburn Distillery. In addition, Michael Doherty will also becoming on board as goalkeeping coach, having fulfilled the same role with Kearney at Coleraine.

Speaking of his appointment Oran Kearney said, "I'm very excited, it's been a whirlwind week. There's a real urgency to want to do well and a desire for success. It'll be a challenge, but I think this club has the infrastructure, the fan base and a lot of good things going for it.

“We will look to develop a relationship with the players and try and put my stamp on things as soon as possible. Everybody starts on a clean slate, it's up to players to impress in training to get into the team and move us forward. 

“I had an enjoyable time here as a player and in recent days a lot of those emotions have come back from my time playing here. I urge the fans to get behind me and the players and push us on for this second half of the season."

Oran’s first match in charge of Ballymena United will be in the away league trip to Portadown next Saturday (13 December), before his homecoming to the Showgrounds against Carrick Rangers the following week with tickets now available from www.ballymenaunitedfc.com/home-tickets