Irish League legend Paul Heatley extends career after signing new Carrick Rangers contract
Paul Heatley is hoping to help Carrick Rangers achieve “greater success” after extending his legendary Irish League career by another year.
Heatley, who will turn 39 at the end of this month, registered his best Premiership goal return last season since the 2018/19 campaign, scoring 12 times in 30 league matches as Carrick sealed the club’s record top-flight points return.
He initially expressed his intention to retire in 2024 after leaving Crusaders, where he made 486 appearances, netting 214 goals and providing 138 assists as he established himself as one of the Irish League’s greats, but quickly returned with Carrick.
Heatley won three Premiership titles and three Irish Cup crowns during his 12-year association with the Crues alongside being named NIFWA Player of the Year and Ulster Footballer of the Year in 2014/15.
Since returning to Taylors Avenue, where he spent time prior to joining Crusaders, Heatley has scored 26 goals across 65 appearances in all competitions and helped Carrick seal Senior Shield glory last season – the club’s first senior trophy in 33 years.
While doubt surrounded Heatley’s future, he has now committed to another season and wants to play his part in taking Carrick to another level.
“I'm delighted to be at Carrick for another year,” he told the club’s website. “To be offered another year in its own right is an absolute privilege.
"The Club felt I had another year in me and physically I am feeling good.
“Last year was such a fantastic year, a real joy to be part of and I'm really looking forward to trying my best to help the team to greater success this year.
"Peter Clarke and Michael Smith are doing fantastic work behind the scenes and Stephen Baxter has been outstanding, along with the coaching staff and players, so it's exciting times and I'm delighted to be around for the next season.”
Heatley worked with current Carrick chief Stephen Baxter during their time together at Crusaders – Baxter took charge of almost 1,000 matches across a near two-decade Seaview reign.
“I am delighted to announce that Club Legend Paul Heatley has agreed to stay on for another season,” said Baxter. “Paul’s performances last year were incredible to watch and thankfully we get to see him do it all over again.
“Paul’s appetite for the game is an inspiration to us all and I know the new kit will look great on him.”