Manager 

 

Westport United FC is thrilled to announce the appointment of Anthony O’Neill as the club’s inaugural Director of Football, a milestone role aimed at elevating the club’s approach to both senior and youth football. Anthony will also serve as the First Team Manager, bringing a focused, cohesive strategy to player development across all levels of the club. Working alongside Anthony as his assistant is Michael Flannery, who brings a wealth of experience in coaching and analysis, further strengthening Westport United’s commitment to excellence. 

 

Anthony joins Westport United with a wealth of qualifications and an impressive background in football. A UEFA A License holder, Anthony’s career spans multiple levels of football management and coaching. His journey includes time at Galway United FC, where he held roles as First Team Coach and Youth Head Coach and has developed a reputation for nurturing young talent and implementing effective coaching strategies. He also holds a Bachelor of Science in Sports Management. This blend of experience has given Anthony a unique perspective on the game, blending high-performance coaching with a focus on youth development—a skill set he now brings to Westport United. 

 

Michael Flannery, Anthony’s assistant, holds both a UEFA A License and a UEFA Elite Youth A License, distinguishing him as an expert in coaching youth players and supporting senior level teams. His previous experience includes coaching roles at Sligo Rovers FC and Manchester United FC, where he specialised in performance analysis and youth development. He also holds a BA in Football Business & Coaching and an MSc in Football Coaching & Analysis. Michael’s background, particularly his work with young players and his analytical approach, will be instrumental in supporting Anthony’s vision for Westport United. 

 

Richard Grady, Club Chairman, commented: “Appointing a Director of Football is an important new chapter for Westport United. Anthony O’Neill’s experience, leadership, and deep knowledge of the game make him an outstanding choice for this role. He understands the importance of building a cohesive structure that supports not just our senior team but the youth teams that represent the future of this club. We are excited to see how his strategic approach will elevate every level of Westport United.” 

 

Grady continued, “This role allows us to establish a unified coaching philosophy across the 

club. It’s about ensuring that every player, from youth to senior level, is given the opportunity to develop and excel. With Anthony and Michael at the helm, we’re confident that we’re laying the groundwork for long-term success and a stronger sense of identity for Westport United.” 

 

Anthony O’Neill, Director of Football and First Team Manager, shared his excitement: “I’m truly honored to take on the role of Director of Football at Westport United, especially as the first person in this position. This club has a proud tradition, and I’m excited to work with both our senior and youth teams to build a sustainable, winning environment that aligns with the values of the club. My goal is to create a pathway for young players to progress through the ranks, contributing to a unified, competitive team that makes Westport United proud.” 

 

Anthony added, “Working with Michael, we aim to establish a coaching structure that focuses on player development at every stage. This is about building a future for Westport United, one where we’re continually developing talent within the club and setting a high standard of football that benefits both players and supporters alike.” 

 

Westport United FC is enthusiastic about this new era with Anthony O’Neill guiding the club’s football philosophy and structure. This appointment signals the start of a strategic, long-term approach to developing talent and ensuring Westport United remains strong in the local community as well as a competitive force both locally and nationally well into the future.