Kearney heaps praise on Academy development

Speaking at last week’s end of season awards the Bannsiders boss paid tribute to the hard work all the volunteers put in to the running of the Academy.

“When I am driving through Coleraine, Ballymoney and other towns and villages, it is amazing how many young people are wearing the blue of Coleraine, and that is showing a clear infinity with the senior team in the area,” said Kearney.

“We are seeing a young supporter fan base at the club. That is amazing to know that we have a young and growing fan base who are not only supporters, but are also part of the club.

“It is only recently that I have begun to realise the enormity of how important our Academy is to the senior club and just how much work goes on to make it the success that it is. I know what we have here is unique in terms of organisation and numbers and I’m proud because no other Irish League club can replicate it.

“To that end I congratulate the Chairman Andy Alcorn, and all the volunteers and coaches to work so tirelessly to develop our young players”, said Kearney.

In closing he also offered advice: “I would ask each and every player to ask themselves ‘have I improved this year’.

“If the answer is yes then it is been a good year, and if each and every player can continue to improve and progress into better players then it is in indeed a success.”