Football: Coagh United unveil new manager

Ian Todd, seen here playing for Coagh last season, has assumed the role of manager at Hagan Park

The Coleraine man is well aware of the challenges faced by the Hagan Park men as the league faces restructuring at the end of season.

On accepting the position the Coleraine man said: “This is a critical season for Coagh United and we want to bring freshness and a new determination to the club.”

The former Coagh striker said: “I am not being negative - I’m as ambitious as anyone - but the reality is that we really have to make sure we are still in Championship Two at the end of next season.

“Straight away, along with my team of coaches, we will be working on building upon the core of quality players that we already have at the club and there has been a lot of interest from new players who are very keen to get on board.”

Along with coaching badges, Ian has an HND in Sport Science and a degree in Management. Coagh’s new manager has brought back Graeme McKenzie as Senior Coach.

Reuben Smyth comes in as assistant coach and Chris Gregg becomes strength and conditioning coach.

The Development Squad will be headed by two of Coagh’s most senior players. Aaron Thornton and Andrew Creighton come to management for the first time with over 40 years of experience between them.

Their goal will be to develop young and experienced players for the first team squad. Both players take over from Chris Leacock and George Lennox who have moved to Desertmartin FC and we wish them well.

Coagh’s pre-season kicks off with a visit from Junior Cup champions Harryville Homers on the 18th July at 2pm. Colerine FC will bring a full squad on Tuesday 21st July, 7.30pm while Orangefield will make their annual trip to Hagan Park on the 25th July.