by Q Radio Sport
Magherafelt teenager Caolin Coyle has been given his first professional football contract with Dungannon Swifts.
He’ll remain there for two seasons.
Caolin who’s 17, is part of the Northern Ireland Under 18 School Boys team who won the Victory Shield this year.
He has previously represented his country at Under 16 level too.
Congratulations to Caolin Coyle, a well deserved reward signing a two year Professional contract. This boy has talent! #swifts 💙⚽👍🏼👦🏼 pic.twitter.com/ZNqpziESCc
— Dungannon Swifts (@DgnSwifts) May 19, 2017
Head Coach Rodney McAree says he is ‘over the moon’ with the new signing.
And, former Sheffield Wednesday and Ballinamallard defender Liam McMenamin also joins the club.
The 28-year-old is a right back, but is equally comfortable playing in the centre of defence or in midfield, and comes with plenty of Danske Bank Premiership experience.
McMenamin has represented Northern Ireland at Under 21 level, and most recently had a short spell at Strabane Athletic.
Speaking about signing, an ecstatic Coyle says it feels amazing to have signed a professional contract at the age of just 17.
“It shows me that Rod (McAree) and the team trust in me to ‘do a job’ in the squad. Having come up through the youth set up, I feel it just proves to people what hard work can do. If you put your head down, you do get rewarded.
He adds: “I feel that I can bring pace and energy to the game as I will be preferably playing at a right back position. I am really looking forward to getting involved even more next season.”
And, Swifts boss Rodney McAree says Liam is a player he’s always admired.
McMenamin described the move as a ‘fresh start’.
He says it was an easy decision to sign for the club.
“I am delighted to be joining the Swifts. I have always had a great admiration for Rodney (McAree), and the way the Swifts play football should suit me perfect. As soon as Rodney had shown an interest to sign me it was an easy decision.
“I feel I can bring some experience, some good football, as well as a bit of bite which might have got me in some bother in recent games against the Swifts! I can’t wait to get started and I am looking forward to the challenge.”
Swifts complete signing of McMenamin @liamMc22 👍🏼⚽💙 #swifts https://t.co/Qow52jCU9T
— Dungannon Swifts (@DgnSwifts) May 20, 2017