New head of Dergview Football Club Academy

MERVYN Robinson has been appointed the new head of the Dergview Football Club Academy.

Robinson will be assisted by Adrian Monaghan and both will bring a wealth of experience to the role having been involved in youth football for over 10 years.

The new double act replaces Joshua Nethery, who stepped down from the role a few weeks ago.

Robinson is relishing the new challenge and is hoping to further develop and grow the under-age structures at the Castlederg club.

He said: “Ultimately we want to help build an academy that will provide a pathway from youth level right through to playing in the Irish League.

“Over the years Castlederg and surrounding district has been a hotbed for players who have gone on to achieve great things at every level.

We want to see that continue and it's important to improve the quality and quantity of coaching at the club's academy.

“Having reviewed the current structures, initially we want to try and provide football at as many age groups as possible.

“With the support and backing of club officials, coaches and parents, the plan is to take things to the next level.

"With everyone singing from the same hymn sheet, I believe, with the proper structures in place and a vision for the future, we can achieve that goal.”

Welcoming the new team, Academy chairman David Loughlin said that Robinson and Monaghan ticked all the boxes and he looked forward to the club flourishing under their direction.

“Firstly, I would like to thank Joshua Nethery for his commitment and hard work and I wish him all the best for the future,” said Mr Loughlin.

“I am absolutely delighted to have got Mervyn and Adrian on board. They are going to be a great addition to our academy and have shown great

enthusiasm and ambition in wanting to drive the Academy forward in the coming years.

“I have known Adrian and Mervyn a long time and they bring with them a wealth of coaching experience.

"Welcome back to the club men!”

Summer fun camp

Dergview Football Club Academy summer fun camp takes place this week on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday from 6.30pm to 8.30pm for children aged five to 15 years.

"Everyone is welcome," a spokesperson said.