New investor makes statement on Athlone Town's future direction

Businessman Nick Giannotti has confirmed his decision to become involved as an investor with Athlone Town AFC and has released a statement outlining his vision for the club.

A native of California in the USA, Mr Giannotti is a director and minority shareholder with English Championship club Plymouth Argyle.

Mr Giannotti released the statement "with great pride and excitement" through the club's Facebook page today (Friday).

"It's a privilege to now formally take on the responsibility of leading this historic club into its next chapter," said the statement.

"First and foremost, I want to thank David Dully and Michael O'Connor for their assistance during this transition and wish them all the best in their future endeavours as they depart the club. In the days ahead, we will announce a new leadership team, that will give Athlone Town a fresh start and help guide the club into a bright new era.

"Just a few weeks ago, we began this new journey by appointing Ian Ryan as manager of the men's first team, a decision that reflects out ambitions and intent," the statement continues.

Mr Giannotti goes on to introduce himself by providing details about his background and business interests.

"Many of you may be sceptical, as I am not local to Athlone, but I can assure that I am not just another disconnected, non-Irish chairman.

"I was raised in San Diego, California where I grew up playing football for a club called the Nomads and won three national championships. As a teenager, I was fortunate enough to spend two summers in the north west of England playing with the team, witnessing first-hand the significance of football to local communities."

Referring to his father's emigration from Italy to the United States of America, he said "his story echoes that of so many Irish families who made a new life abroad".

Mr Giannotti's wife, with whom he has two young children, has roots in Cork and studied in Dublin. "Our family is proud to now become part of the Athlone community," he said.

"Professionally, I've been in the solar business for 15 years and have had the privilege of leading Redball Energy, a company I co-founded, for the past four. Recently, I've had the chance to merge my professional skills and personal passion by serving as a director and minority shareholder of Plymouth Argyle FC. Football is a lifelong passion of mine, and it is with that same energy, respect and drive that I come to Athlone," said Mr Giannotti.

"While I am not from Ireland, I know how much this club means to its supporters and its town. I understand the responsibility of this role. Please know that I am not here to change Athlone's identity. I aim to honour it, to protect it, and to grow it alongside all of you.

"There are many things that my team and I intend to do, but our vision is rooted in two principles: driving excellence and financial sustainability.

"We will invest in the club's infrastructure, our players and our staff. We will work tirelessly to build financial stability, sustainability, and increase revenue streams, enabling our teams to succeed on the pitch. We will become a club that nurtures and showcases young talent, both from Ireland and beyond, guided by data, smart recruitment, and a relentless commitment to improvement both on and off the pitch," he continued.

"Just as importantly, we want Athlone Town to feel like a family. We’ll maintain and celebrate cherished traditions, and we’ll continue to make this club a source of local pride. You’ll see us in the stands, in the community, and hopefully, in the hearts of more and more supporters.

"I look forward to listening and talking with many of you, hearing what this club means to you, and how we can continue to improve it together. I don’t have all the answers, and I won’t be able to grant every wish, but I promise to be honest, transparent, thoughtful, and open with you all.

"This journey will have its highs and lows. That’s football. But we’ll face them together, as a community, as a club, as a town."

Referring to Athlone Town hosting games in the UEFA Women’s Champions League, he described this as "a truly special opportunity to showcase not only our team, but also our facilities, our people, and the pride of the Midlands on a European stage".

"Let’s make this next chapter something truly special. Thank you for welcoming me and my family. I am so excited to join you all as a massive supporter of the club and the community," added the statement from Mr Giannotti.