Martin Connolly is a former Dundalk goalkeeper, who became goalkeeping coach with the senior squad in February 2008. Connolly, who is in the process of obtaining his UEFA badges in coaching, spent time at Oriel Park as a player in the early 90s, and made his only ever senior appearances for the club when lining-out twice in the 1991/92 season. Despite performing well, however, the local netminder could never displace legendary ‘keeper Alan O’Neill from the number one spot.

Martin returned to Oriel during pre-season earlier this year following the departure of Paul Fagan and the late decision of intended replacement Dermot O’Neill to join Bohemians on a full-time contract. The appointment originated through Jack Greene, a son of club director Paddy Greene, and a member of an under-12 schoolboys team which Connolly was involved with. And, it’s a signing that manager John Gill has been more than pleased with. “I have to say, I’ve been absolutely thrilled with his contribution since he’s come in,” Gill said.

Connolly had initially turned down the role due to work and family commitments, however, after working out details with Gill, he was delighted to come on board. “When I initially turned it down, I was disappointed, but we sat down and we worked out a schedule. I would have to say, since I’ve come in, I would be very impressed with John’s professionalism and his enthusiasm. He has treated me very well.”

During the coming year, Connolly will be continually working towards achieving his UEFA badges in coaching. His aim is to obtain the UEFA ‘A’ Goalkeeping badge, however, before he can do so, he must first go through the course for the outfield badge, a programme which Shamrock Rovers manager Pat Scully is also currently on.

Connolly is also part of the Emerging Talent Programme run by the Football Association of Ireland and the Schoolboys League this past two years, with its aim ‘to raise the technical ability of players across all levels of the game through a provision of further training and lifestyle development at schoolboy league and regional level.’ Connolly is over the under-12s division in the programme, while he has also recently been playing Gaelic Football with local GAA club, Seàn O’Mahony’s. “I’m probably near the end of my playing days anyway, so coaching is the next step now for me,” Connolly said.

Profile last updated: July 2009