COLLIGAN: WHERE DO I SIGN?

The former Ballymena United full back, who has just returned from nine months in Australia, attracted interest from several teams upon his return.

But after speaking with the Bannsiders boss there was only one place he wanted to be.

“A few clubs have spoken to me about joining them, but I really like what is going on here,” said Colligan after signing a pre-contract agreement last Thursday night.

“Coleraine worked the hardest to get me on board and have made a real big effort since I came to training and it just feels right here.

“The team is flying at the minute. Since Oran has taken over there has been a steady increase and it is definitely heading in the right direction.

“Like any player I want to win things and be up there challenging the best teams, and I feel I can do that at Coleraine.

“There’s a great opportunity for us to push for a European place this season which would be fantastic if we got it.”The boss is obviously building something here and the fact that he is committed to the club sends the right message out to the players.

Colligan has already been training with the Bannsiders and he has been impressed with the team spirit in the camp.

“There’s a really good vibe here,” he said. There’s a really good dressing room and there’s no cliques and it‘s a nice chilled out atmosphere to play football in which is what I want.

“The club has achieved big things this season and a lot of that is down to team spirit.

“When you’re enjoying your football and having fun you play better stuff.

“Obviously I have to travel a bit to come up here from Carrick, but when you know you’re coming up to have fun with a great bunch of lads it makes the world of difference.

“I know quite a few of the lads, I’ve played with Boydy, Curtis and Stevie Lowry in the past.

“And obviously I worked under Wesley Gregg at Ballymena and he is a fantastic coach.”

Colligan can’t get his Coleraine started in earnest until next season but here is one game which will have extra significance for him.

“I just can’t wait to get started and look forward to giving 100% just like I did at every other club I was at,” said Colligan.

“Obviously being a former Ballymena player will add extra spice to the derby games. They are always good games to play in.

“I’ve nothing bad to say about Ballymena, everyone treated me really well during my time there.

“But this is a new challenge for me and one which I’ll give my all for.

“I’m sure the first game between us next season will be fun.

“As I say I’m dying to get going, pre-season starts now for me, I just need to get the travelling out of the system and I’ll be raring to go come the start of next season.”