Two former club captains depart Athlone Town

Athlone Town have announced two player departures and one arrival to the men's first team as preparations continue ahead of the new SSE Airtricity First Division season in February.

Dan McKenna and Dylan Hand have both left the club following the expiration of their contracts.

Both players initially joined the club for the 2021 season, departing at the end of that campaign before returning to Athlone at later stages.

Dan returned in 2023 after a spell with Warrenpoint Town, while Dylan returned to the club in 2024 following spells with Warrenpoint Town and Longford Town.

Both Dan and Dylan made over 100 appearances each for the club between league and cup competitions, as well as captaining the team at different stages.

Meanwhile, the club have confirmed the loan signing of Aaron Maloney from Shelbourne for the 2026 season.

The central midfielder will link up with Ian Ryan's team having recently graduated from the Shelbourne academy.