Athlone Town announces new board and confirms departure of former club officials

Athlone Town AFC has announced "a new board of directors and members," stating that three of the leading figures at the club over previous years have now formally ended their involvement.

In a statement posted on social media this morning (Tuesday), the club said former chairman John Hayden, former secretary David Dully, and former director of football/head of academy Michael O'Connor had signed their resignations from the club with the Companies Registration Office.

Nick Giannotti, the American investor who became chairman of the club last year, thanked Mr Hayden, Mr Dully and Mr O'Connor for their service to Athlone Town.

"I would like to thank them all for their hard work, dedication, time and commitment to the football club for many years," Mr Giannotti stated.

"I also want to thank them for their trust in me and the team to carry Athlone Town AFC to higher levels.

"We are excited for the start of the new season and for all to see the improvements that have been made and that are ongoing."

The club's statement named its new board of directors and members as consisting of Nick Giannotti, fellow US-based investor Andrew Beal, Andrea Clarke, club CEO Steven Gray, and club finance manager Emerson Farrelly.

The Athlone Town men's team will kick off its 2026 season at home to Finn Harps this Friday (February 13) with kick-off at 7.45pm.

The club's all-conquering women's team, meanwhile, will begin the defence of their league title with an away fixture against Sligo Rovers on Saturday, March 14.