Ballymena United Football CLUB NEWS

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Ballymena United are delighted to announce the signing of midfielder Josh Archer.

A hard working and energetic central midfielder, the 23-year-old arrives at the Showgrounds following the expiry of his contract at Linfield, where he made 120 appearances for his boyhood club.

Having joined the Blues at U14 level, he worked his way up through the ranks to the senior side, debuting in 2020. Archer went on to become a regular in David Healy's midfield and made over 50 appearances in his final season at Windsor Park. That included starting in all but one of Linfield's victories during their BetMcLean Cup success last term. Archer was part of a Linfield side that won multiple League's and League Cup's during his time there.

Josh also spent the 2022/23 season on loan at Portadown, picking up their Player of the Year award after a breakout campaign.

Speaking for the first time in United colours, Josh stated:

"Once I knew of the interest, I was keen to get it done. This will be a good thing for me, stepping out of my comfort zone and hopefully I can hit the ground running. I had a lot of people to learn from at Linfield but now it's time for my next step and hopefully I can keep on improving and bring as much as I can."

Manager Oran Kearney also spoke on his delight at finally securing Archer's services:

"This wasn't my first attempt to sign Josh as a manager. He has all the tools to succeed, he's still very young but yet so experienced with things like league and cup wins. He comes similar to others we're looking to bring in, in that he'll just improve with more games.

Hopefully he is another one that is exciting for people looking at what we're building. For me, he's a really exciting addition."

Josh will wear the number 8 shirt during the 2026/27 season.   

Ballymena United are thrilled to announce Scot Whiteside has returned to the Showgrounds upon the expiry of his contract at Linfield.

The 29-year-old centre back spent six years on Warden Street from 2018-2024, making 134 appearances in total, including being a mainstay in the side that finished 2nd in the 2018/19 season. Whiteside also lined out in two Irish Cup finals for United, missing out on a third through injury.

In his two year spell away at Linfield, Scot picked up a league winners medal, as well as being part of the BetMcLean Cup winning squad in the last campaign, as he made 40 appearances in total for the Blues. Before his first spell at United, Whiteside played in the Rangers Youth set up, as well as a loan period at Coleraine, before eventually joining United for from Derry City.

Speaking to the club about his return, Scot started by saying:
 

"Once I heard the plans here on and off the pitch, it was an easy decision. This is such a family-oriented club and I'm so excited to get back. There's a real freshness about the place this time round and hopefully with the experience I've gained at Linfield, I can offer so much more."
 

Oran Kearney had this to say on why he has brought Scot back to his old stomping ground:
 

"Ballymena United was very good for Scot in his first time here, as he was for the club and he's at a good age now where he wants to be racking up appearances and this is a great opportunity to write his second chapter here."
 

The manager continued:
 

"I'm very big on creating a local identity for this club and Scot's been about this area for a long time and knows what it's about. David Healy spoke very highly of him and how he conducted himself at Linfield, but now is a good time to have him back here."
 

Scot will once again wear the number 5 shirt for the 2026/27 campaign.
     

Ballymena United are pleased to confirm the signing of Micheál Glynn after the expiry of his contract at Cliftonville.

The versatile left sided player, who predominantly operates as a left wing back, is the second additional to Oran Kearney's squad ahead of his first full season in charge, with Glynn following Chris McKee into the building.

Although still only 24-years-old, Micheál brings a wealth of experience, following spells at Dungannon Swifts, Glenavon and Larne, winning two league titles with the Invermen. He has spent the last two seasons at Cliftonville, for whom he made seventy-five appearances, scoring four times, as well as winning the BetMcLean Cup in 2025. He is also a former Northern Ireland U21 international and will now bring all of that experience with him to United.

In his first interview after becoming a Sky Blue, Glynn remarked:

"I'm still very young in my career but I've played a lot of games in the league. I've picked up a few medals so far and the project here is one of trying to pick up more and pushing for Europe. There's a great squad here with a lot of quality players that I've first hand experience of playing against."

Manager Oran Kearney was keen to stress why Glynn fits the profile for his squad, saying:

"The aim for us is to have two good players in every position and whilst Matthew Clarke has seen off a few in his position already, it's my job to provide competition to challenge him and Micheál's job is to do that. Like many we'll look to bring in, Micheál isn't green and this isn't his first gig, but he has so much growth ahead of him. He has a lot of games behind him and many successes and it's a good time for him to come in and move us forward."

Micheál will wear the number 3 shirt for the 2026/27 campaign. 

Ballymena United are excited to announce the arrival of striker Chris McKee to the Showgrounds, joining the club following the expiration of his contract with Linfield.
 

The 24-year-old joins United from the Blues, where he enjoyed a four and a half year spell. Previously, McKee had a four year stint at Rangers, playing for Rangers B and having a loan spell at Brechin City, before joining David Healy's side on loan in January 2022. After making his debut against Ballymena, Chris impressed as Linfield secured the title, leading to a permanent move that summer. In total, he won two league titles and three League Cup's at Windsor Park.
 

McKee went on to make over 150 appearances in his second period with Linfield, netting 46 times, including the winner in last season's BetMcLean Cup final against Glentoran. A reliable component in front of goal, McKee hit double figures last season and has eight appearances to his name for Northern Ireland's U21's, scoring once against Scotland.
 

Commenting on joining the Braidmen, Chris had this to say:
 

"Now is the time for me to kick on in my career, have a fresh start and a change and I was really excited by the project Ballymena came to me with. When you look at the group of players Ballymena already have and those we're looking to bring in, I think we have a really strong squad."
 

Oran Kearney spoke about what he hopes Chris can bring to his side, saying:
 

"When you look at last season, we haven't scored enough goals and conceded too many. Different players we bring in will have different jobs and Chris' will be to add to the goals scored column. He's not green or naive, there isn't a period of learning that needs to come first. Chris just wants to play more football and hopefully the frustrations he's had pour out onto the pitch for us."

Chris will wear the number 7 shirt for the 2026/27 campaign.
     

  Season tickets for the 2026/2027 campaign are officially on sale, and we're inviting every supporter to stand United Together.

With renewed optimism returning to the Showgrounds, there has never been a better time to commit your support for the season ahead.

Prices Frozen for 2026/2027
In a move to reward loyalty and keep matchdays affordable for all, the Ballymena United Board of Directors has confirmed that season ticket prices will be frozen at last season's rates. There are no increases across any category.

Prices
Adult - £190 (value of £10 per game)
Senior (65+) - £120 (£6.31 per game)
Student - £110 (£5.79 per game)
Under - £40 (£2.11 per game)
Directors Box – from £195

Add a physical season ticket card for just £5. Flexible three-part payment plans are also available for supporters who prefer to spread the cost.

Cost per game savings calculated on a projected on 19 available home matches.

A Brand-New Ticketing Experience
This season marks the start of an exciting new chapter as Ballymena United partners with TicketCo, our new ticketing provider for the 2026/2027 campaign. The new system has been built to deliver a smoother, faster and more rewarding supporter experience and making it easier than ever to buy, manage and access your season ticket.

Seven Towers, Seven Benefits

 Inspired by the famous Seven Towers, every purchased season ticket unlocks seven outstanding benefits:
1️⃣ Up to 79% discount on individual match tickets
2️⃣ 10% discount at the club shop (in store)
3️⃣ 10% discount at the Sky Blue Bar
4️⃣ Priority access to away tickets and cup finals
5️⃣ Exclusive invites to season ticket holder-only events
6️⃣ 20% discount on Corporate Dinner tickets
7️⃣ Exclusive season ticket holder competitions

Be Part of It
Season tickets are valid for all home NIFL Premiership fixtures throughout the entirety of the 2026/2027 season. Whether you've held a season ticket for years or are joining the Sky Blue family for the first time, now is the moment to be part of it as we are United Together.

Season tickets are available now from https://ballymenaunited.ticketco.shop 

Ballymena United FC is delighted to announce the appointment of Neil Coleman as new Director of Communications and Marketing ahead of the 2026/2027 season.
 

The role sees Neil join the club’s senior management structure with responsibility for shaping and driving the Sky Blues’ communications strategy, media relations, digital presence, and brand development.
 

Neil brings an extensive portfolio of experience in football communications. He recently served for eight years with the NI Football League, latterly as Head of Communications and Digital Innovation. He also holds a concurrent role as Venue Data Coordinator with UEFA, a position held with European football's governing body since 2019.
 

His affinity with Ballymena United runs deep: having been appointed the club's Company Secretary in 2010, he authored the club's Official History five years later, and also served as a Committee Member of the Ballymena United Youth Academy from 2016 to 2021.
 

Neil currently works as Client Director at Clearbox, one of Ireland’s leading communications agencies, where he has developed strategic communications programmes for a range of clients. Last year, he was also elected to the Committee of Derriaghy Cricket Club.
 

Chris Selwood, Chairman, Ballymena United FC said:
 

“Neil is exactly the kind of person we have been looking for as somebody who understands football, understands communications, and understands every aspect of Ballymena United. His background across the NIFL, UEFA, and the wider marketing industry gives him a unique set of skills that we believe will make a real difference to how we present ourselves as a club. We are thrilled to welcome him to the team and look forward to the impact he will have.”
 

Neil Coleman added upon his appointment:
 

“Ballymena United holds a very special place in my life. Having started my professional journey as a volunteer 25 years ago, I have watched with great pride as the club has developed and grown over the years. To now have the opportunity to contribute and tell the club’s story is both exciting and a privilege. I am looking forward to working with Chris, the board, the management team, and the talented media team to take our club's profile to the next level.”
 

The club can also update supporters that Ronnie McDowell has stepped down from the Board of Directors this month. The club wishes to place on record its sincere thanks to Ronnie for his years of dedicated service and contribution to Ballymena United, and wishes him well for the future.
 

In addition, a reminder the next Annual General Meeting of Ballymena United FC will be held for shareholders on Wednesday 10 June in the Des Allen Suite of the Ballymena Showgrounds. 

Double member has Sports Bond success

Thomas Adair (7474) has a unique history in Sports Bond. He is one of a few members who has double membership on different agencies. This week Thomas, who is a life long Ballymena United supporter, was a £50 Major winner. Thomas is a member on Maurice Anderson's agency and won on Maurice's  agency, but he is also a member at the Blackstone where he has previously won as well. We would love to have more double members to celebrate our 25th anniversary later this year.

Another previous winner, Doreen Wylie (A2248), was a £50 Major winner on the agency of Alastair Shaw. Doreen, who lives in   Randalstown, has a connection with Ballymena United as her father played for the club. Doreen was our only lady member to win this week. 

In the Minor section, there was a win for Martin Millar (A5448) who now has a Major and Minor win in the last six months. Trevor Robinson (C0371) was once again a £10 Minor winner on the agency of David Brown. Leo Thompson (A6077) was a £10 winner on his Nana Patricia Thompson's agency. 

The Jackpot for next week is £850 after the numbers 12 13 21 28 were not allocated. Join Sports Bond now on 07831 803970 

Agents News 

Congratulations to Sports Bond member Paul Legget. Paul and his wife are both huge Ballymena United supporters and they celebrated another wedding anniversary last week.

Birthday greetings to Darren Black who celebrates his birthday on Monday and Stephen Stirling will be celebrating his Birthday on Tuesday. 

                                                                       First Score 

This week sees the First World Cup First Score and will feature England v Croatia on Wednesday. 

Cards are priced at £2 and can be purchased from usual sources. 

Ballymena United Football Club is delighted to announce a new three-year partnership with TicketCo as the club's official ticketing partner ahead of the 2026/27 season.
 

The agreement will see TicketCo provide the club with a modern, integrated ticketing platform designed to make purchasing matchday and season tickets simpler and more convenient for supporters. The partnership reflects the club's ongoing commitment to improving the fan experience both on and off the pitch.
 

Supporters will be able to take advantage of the new platform right away, with season tickets going on sale this week.
 

Ballymena United Chairman Chris Selwood said: "This partnership marks an exciting step forward for the club. Our supporters are at the heart of everything we do, and bringing TicketCo on board allows us to offer a smooth and reliable ticketing experience for years to come. We're confident this three-year agreement will benefit fans across the Showgrounds and support our wider ambitions as a club."
 

David Kenny, Vice President UKI at TicketCo, said: "We are delighted to be joining Ballymena United as the club's new ticketing partner prior to the 2026/27 season. Our role is to provide the tools that help the club serve its fans well, strengthen engagement over time, and support its wider ambitions.
 

“The best ticketing platforms should put clubs and supporters first, working in the background to make that relationship simple, smooth, and dependable. We are excited to work closely with Ballymena and be part of the club's journey in the seasons ahead."

Manager Oran Kearney has confirmed the departure of eight players as part of an initial phase of rebuilding the first team squad in preparation for next season.
 

The manager and everyone at the club would like to sincerely thank all the departing players for their contribution to Ballymena United, and wish them well in their future careers.
 

The following five players will not be offered renewed terms, and will depart the club this summer:
 

Aaron Jarvis – across two seasons the dynamic midfielder scored four goals in 65 appearances, after joining from Coleraine.
 

Daniel Lafferty – the Northern Ireland international full-back provided a wealth of experience in his two seasons at the Showgrounds, making 60 appearances, and scoring four goals.
 

Stephen O’Donnell – signed in the summer of 2024; the big defender brought natural leadership to the club with consistent performances in the heart of the United back-line, with 66 appearances and two goals.
 

Dylan McGeouch – the Scotland international showed his class in the middle of the park and made an instant impression after joining the club in November, making eighteen appearances for the Sky Blues.
 

Brad Wade – the English goalkeeper stepped in between the sticks until the end of the season following Sean O’Neill’s sudden retirement, and impressed during his 13 appearances for Ballymena United.
 

Three players who have been out on loan during the past season will also leave the club, upon the expiry of their contracts:
- Alex Gawne
- Caolan Loughran
- Shea McAuley
 

In addition, the manager has made the following players available for transfer: Dean Ebbe, Ali Gould, Ryan McNickle and Jack O’Reilly.

Dylan McGeouch named Player of the Year as Igor Rutkowski dominates with five awards on a memorable night at the Tullyglass Hotel.

Ballymena United held their Annual Awards at the Tullyglass Hotel on Friday 15 May, bringing together players, staff, sponsors, and supporters to celebrate an outstanding 2025/26 season as midfielder Dylan McGeouch was crowned Player of the Year, the night's headline honour voted for by supporters online.

IGOR RUTKOWSKI: THE NIGHT'S STANDOUT PERFORMER
The evening was dominated by one name above all others. Igor Rutkowski claimed five awards as his haul included the Don Stirling Memorial Award (Breakthrough Player of the Year), the Raymond Erwin Memorial Award (Managers' Player of the Year), the SO89 Supporters Club Player of the Year, the Paradise SC Young Player of the Year, and the Paradise SC Player of the Year (Roy Allen Memorial Award).

SENIOR & CLUB AWARDS IN FULL
Player of the Year (Online Vote): Dylan McGeouch
Players' Player of the Year: Kian Corbally
Young Player of the Year (Online Vote): Kian Corbally
Goal of the Season (Online Vote): Donal Rocks
Don Stirling Memorial Award (Breakthrough Player of the Year): Igor Rutkowski
Raymond Erwin Memorial Award (Managers' Player of the Year): Igor Rutkowski
Tommy Patterson Memorial Top Goalscorer: Success Edogun (13 goals)
Lydia Ross Memorial Award (Clubman of the Year): Daithi McCallion
SO89 SC Player of the Year: Igor Rutkowski
Ballymoney, Finvoy & Rasharkin SC Player of the Year: Daithi McCallion
Ballymoney, Finvoy & Rasharkin SC Top Goalscorer: Success Edogun
Paradise SC Young Player of the Year: Igor Rutkowski
Paradise SC Player of the Year / Roy Allen Memorial Award: Igor Rutkowski
Noel Millar Memorial Award (Outstanding Achievement Behind the Scenes): John Torrington

Kian Corbally also enjoyed a double-award night, taking both the Players' Player of the Year and the Young Player of the Year, reflecting his emergence as one of the most exciting talents in the squad.

Success Edogun finished as the club's top goalscorer with an impressive 13 goals across the season, while Daithi McCallion was recognised both as Clubman of the Year and Ballymoney, Finvoy & Rasharkin SC Player of the Year.

A special tribute was paid to John Torrington, winner of the Noel Millar Memorial Award for Outstanding Achievement Behind the Scenes, an honour recognising selfless and invaluable contribution to the club away from the spotlight.

YOUTH AWARDS IN FULL
Under-16s Top Goalscorer: Corey Ramsey; Player of the Year: Oistin Mooney; 

Players' Player of the Year: Toby Banks

Under-18s Top Goalscorer (joint): Joel Barr & Thom Beattie; 

Player of the Year: Tony O'Hagan; 

Players' Player of the Year: Jude Rooney

Under-20s Top Goalscorer: Alex Houston; Player of the Year: Matthew McDowell; 

Players' Player of the Year: Matthew McDowell

Matthew McDowell claimed both the Player of the Year and Players' Player of the Year at Under-20 level, underlining his quality.

INTERNATIONAL RECOGNITION
The club also paused to recognise two players who represented Northern Ireland at international level during the season. Luke Bellingham earned a call-up to the Northern Ireland Under-16 team, while Kyle Chivers represented the Northern Ireland Under-17 side.

A SPECIAL TRIBUTE
The evening also included a cheque presentation to Air Ambulance NI in memory of Lydia Ross, a young Ballymena United supporter. Funds were raised through shirt sales, sky blue ribbon badges, and donations from the club's supporters community.