2024 marks the last of 7 years that most of this wonderful group of players has been together as one team. There have been thrills and spills throughout the years since we first joined up as under 12’s representing Abbey Rangers Under 13’s to create bonds and friendships that will last a lifetime. 

Typical of a group that love their football, they were always prepared to play a year up and over the years they have all represented at least two teams for the club. With this level of commitment success was never too far away and they climbed the divisions to compete at a very high level - notably appearing in Division 3 finals for both league and championship as under 16’s in 2022. 

Success for any club though is measured not by medals but rather by the numbers that continue playing right through their teenage years and into adulthood.

To this end it has been fantastic to see Sean Behan, Luke Mc Kenna and Ieuan Sweeney make their debuts for our young and exciting senior team and they will no doubt be joined by younger minor players, Alex Conroy, Darragh Murphy, Paddy Neary and Aaron Schofield very soon. 

These players have soldiered through thick and thin together with an equally fine group of Ballykelly players to create an Abbey Rangers team that typifies the spirit of the amalgamation that goes from strength to strength due to the commitments of players and parents alike. This was matched by the executives of both clubs and our excellent sponsors throughout the years most notably our current sponsors Branach Construction to whom we are very grateful. 

At the time of going to print the minors are preparing for a championship quarter final and lads are preparing to start college. 

Regardless of the outcome their coaches and clubs are extremely proud of them and wish them every success in their football and life journeys.