Mayo native signs first professional soccer deal

Westport native Conor Reynolds was last week announced as one of four academy players who have signed their first professional deals with Sligo Rovers. He was joined by team-mates and fellow academy graduates Daire Patton, Gareth McElroy and Kyle McDonagh.

The news follows the announcement of a contract extension for both midfielder Conor Malley and first-team manager John Russell.

The former Westport United player made his debut for the club on July 15, 2023, at the Showgrounds against Cork City. This season, the Irish underage international made a further four first team appearances for the Bit O’Red, including three starts.

Unfortunately for the Mayo man, injury against Shelbourne in Tolka Park last May reduced the opportunities for first-team action, with the highly-rated defender not featuring in a league game since.

The central defender, who can also deputise at right-back, has gone on to make two appearances for the Republic of Ireland at Under-18 level.

He was well on the road to recovery however, making an appearance from the bench in Sligo’s sold-out friendly clash with Celtic.

“Daire, Kyle, Gareth and Conor are each proof of the great work the academy coaches are doing here at Rovers,” commented John Russell. “It shows that the academy structures are in good shape and it’s a huge boost for the first team when we can call on the young lads when needed.”

He continued: “All four have reasonable first team experience at young ages and each have excelled when called upon. It’s an indication of how healthy a state the club is in when you have groups of players rising through to sign professional deals.

“We are always keen to give youth a chance here at the Showgrounds and we will be looking to further develop and sign from our own academy as the years go on,” concluded Russell.