Letterkenny Rovers Football Club was celebrated on 9 October 2025 with a special civic reception held at the Letterkenny Public Services Centre, hosted by the Mayor of Letterkenny-Milford Municipal District, Cllr. Ciaran Brogan. The event recognized not just the club’s incredible achievements during the memorable 2024/25 season but also the club’s enduring and wide-reaching contribution to the Letterkenny community over decades.
Club officials, committee members, and volunteers were warmly acknowledged for their dedication, with special mention for those who have shaped the club over the years, including tributes to former members who have passed away such as Charlie Collins senior, Liam Collins, Liam Blake, Busty Blake, Stanley White, Bernard Doherty, Dick Duffy, Bernard McGlynn, Kieran McGrath, Dessie Kelly, Patsy Collins and most recently Victor Fisher.
Among the dignitaries present was Minister of State, Charlie McConalogue, joining club chairman Eamonn McConigley, team manager Stephen McConnell and the senior squad, the three-time trophy winners from last season. Under Stephen McConnell’s stewardship, the team won the Donegal League Premier Division, the Ulster Junior Cup (with a 1-0 victory over Kildrum Tigers), and the Brian McCormick Sports Cup (defeating Castlefin Celtic 2-1 after extra time), crowning an unbeaten league season.
In his remarks, Mayor Brogan emphasized that the evening was about more than sporting honours, noting that the club’s investment in volunteers, facilities like Leckview Park, and youth development have played a vital role in the growth and vibrancy of Letterkenny. He highlighted that such success comes only through years of hard work across generations, urging recognition not just of recent achievements but the club’s legacy.
Mayor Brogan paid special tribute to Gerry Meehan—former Republic of Ireland youth international, who earned three Irish caps in 1973 and remains a vital presence at the club. Even today, Gerry can still be found week after week helping out by selling lotto tickets for Letterkenny Rovers. It’s amazing volunteers like Gerry who quietly build the heart and spirit of the club.
Club Chairman Eamonn McConigley received a commemorative scroll from Mayor Brogan and expressed gratitude to both the council and the entire Letterkenny community for their ongoing support. He noted the club’s continued growth in membership and the expansion of teams at all levels, reflecting the increasing engagement with local families and youth.
Manager Stephen McConnell praised the senior players for their role as role models for young athletes and noted the bright future being built by nurturing local talent. The night concluded with renewed enthusiasm from all involved to further enhance both the sporting and community projects overseen by the club.
Letterkenny Rovers extends heartfelt thanks to all players, volunteers, families, sponsors, local leaders, and supporters who made this honour possible. With pride in the past and optimism for the future, the club will continue its commitment to both excellence on the field and making a positive impact in the wider Letterkenny community.
Photo credit: Geraldine Diver.
