Leitrim’s Niall Morahan has signed a new contract with Sligo Rovers as he becomes the first recipient of the new IT Sligo Scholarship programme with the club.
The Republic of Ireland Under-19 international has penned a deal until the end of 2021 season and will begin his IT Sligo course in September. Niall will be studying for a business degree.
The new partnership will see two scholarships co-funded annually by IT Sligo and Rovers. Niall is the first recipient.
“I’m delighted to take up the offer,” said Niall.
“The last year has gone really well for me on an individual basis and this season I’ve been involved a lot more than I thought I’d be.
“I think it’s good to take on education as well as football. I’m 19 but I want to open up different avenues for myself.
“My long-term future is now here at The Showgrounds and that’s very reassuring too. I wanted to commit myself to the club and what is happening here.”
Rovers manager Liam Buckley has welcomed Morahan’s new contract.
“Niall has come into the side throughout this season at right-back and midfield and acquitted himself very well after some good years in the academy teams. Education is very important for young players and this is the beginning of what will be a regular feature at the club.
“The club has a lot of talented young players and we feel we can offer them not just a great opportunity in football but in education as well.
“When I was with St Patrick’s Athletic we had a link-up that saw a number of lads complete degrees and it stands to them so I have an understanding of how you manage it.”
Morahan hasn’t played for Sligo Rovers in recent weeks because of a knee ligament injury. He was part of the Republic of Ireland under 19 squad which reached the European Championship semi-finals, before losing to Portugal.
