Interview with Committee Member & U11 Coach "Brian McDermott"

1. When did you join Athenry FC?
- I have only been personally involved within the club in the last year or so...my son is playing with the club for the last 6 years, so that is why i got involved. I am on the committee and also a coach with the U11 boys.

2. As a player, what are your fondest memories?
- I have never played for Athenry FC, but always played Junior Soccer. I played for my local club, Lough Harps, in the Roscommon District league. Unlike the achievements of Athenry FC we would have had modest achievements. What sticks out for me is gaining promotion from Division 3 to the Premier Division and winning Division 1 along the way, also playing with great players down through the years and being apart for many years after we all finished and getting back together after many years to play in the master league, great craic. I also managed the masters team for a few seasons.

3. As a coach, what do/did you enjoy the most?
- I coached the Lough Harps Junior B Team for two seasons, it was enjoyable but tough at the same time. We struggled with numbers at times and found players not as commited as the first team players. All in all it was a good experience. I am currently helping out now with the Athenry FC U11 boys. There is a great group of coaches and great bunch of players, lots of talent in the squad and most importantly it is lots of fun for all. I really enjoying it.

4. What made you decide to join the committee?
- I didn't realise I was on the Committee until I got an email from Colin for the "next Committee meeting"
This came about from the AGM last year which had record attendence numbers, (well done Pete) so i am on the committee for attending the AGM
No regrets. I am enjoying helping out in a small way and there is a great bunch on the Committee.

5. As a committee member, what is the hardest part?
- I don't find being on the Committee hard as its only been a year or so, finding the time to attend meetings perhaps, but no not hard, enjoyable.

6. What do you enjoy most about being on the Committee?
- Feeling part of something, seeing all the hard work that individuals put into the Club.
All the hard work that goes in behind the scenes that goes unnoticed.
AFC is a brilliant Committee to be involved with.

7. Can you name three of your most memorable moments with the Club?
- I am not long enough here to have to many memories, but my highlight so far is "The Chaser" fundraiser (not sure how I ended up on the Fundraising Committee either) but I have to say the satisfaction I got from it all was brilliant. The support I got from all the local businesses without any hassle, it is a credit to them, also businesses far afield also they came on board. As for the Financial Committee, what can I say, it was great craic, very professional and good friends were made from it plus a great night in the Raheen Woods Hotel. I am very proud to have been a part of that and hopefully the next fundraiser too.

8. What are your ambitions for the next three years?
- I would love to see the U11's devolop and move on to great things. They have great potential. I would like to do more coaching courses, I hope to become more involved with Club and help out as best i can.

Thank you,
@athenry_afc / #athenry_afc