Ballybogey bigger and better than ever despite rumours of their demise

However, Danny Hickinson dispelled the rumours. “It doesn’t surprise me to hear that people have been saying things like that,” said Danny. “However, I can assure everyone that Ballybogey FC has not folded, in fact we are working hard to strengthen things for the new season and have already made five new signings.

“Plans are going full steam ahead. Billy Hickinson is the Manager with Noel Laverty Assistant Manager and we have asked another experienced person to come on board. We have received a massive sponsorship boost to take over from Sky TV with no less than three local businesses backing us as well as others helping, so I think it’s safe to say that Ballybogey FC has never been better.

“Unfortunately we have lost a couple of very good players. James McLaughlin has gone to Coleraine and William Beckett is possibly going to either Glebe Rangers or Coagh Inited in Championship Two. They will be a big loss but we have a couple of very good players coming in and I can assure you Bogey will still be challenging for the trophies next season.”

Ballybogey held their annual awards night with ex-Ballybogey player, Coleraine striker Ian Parkhill presenting the awards. Player of the Year and Players Player - Willie Beckett; Goal Scorer of the Year, Young Player of the Year and Supporters’ player of the Year - James McLaughlin and Clubman of the Year - Noel Laverty.