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Match Preview: v Treaty United

Written by Admin on . Posted in News, Women's.

Pre-Season Friendly: Athlone Town AFC vs Treaty United

Date: February 17th 2024

Kick-off: 2pm

Venue: Athlone Town Stadium

Preseason preparations are well underway for both sides and this is another step in the right direction.

Ciaran Kilduff stated, “Things are going well for us.” “The girls are in a good place and now this is us trying to get player match sharp for the start of the season. The team are looking forward to it” he added.

Team News

Athlone Town AFC has had a good pre-season, getting much needed minutes into players, however, there are a couple of injury concerns, with Kayleigh Shine unavailable and Jenaya Robertson a doubt for the opening match.

Treaty United, have been active in the transfer market, recruiting well to enhance their squad depth.

Past Encounters

Athlone Town and Treaty have only played 5 times ever and each encounter offering plenty of excitement and lots of goals. With both teams looking stronger and more ambitious this season, this game is expected to be no different.

Key Players to Watch

For Athlone Town AFC Kate Slevin has been superb this preseason and she will be looking to put her name on the team sheet for the curtain raiser before the league campaign where Athlone Play Peamount United in the Presidents Cup.

Treaty United have recruited well but it is Cara Griffin who will be under the spotlight, she had an excellent season last year and will be looking to build on her impressive stats.

Match Tickets
Tickets for the game can be purchased by clicking here.

Referee Team
Referee: Ryan Maher
1st Assistant Referee: Ray Conlon
2nd Assistant Referee: Dean Stenson

Match Preview: v Wexford FC

Written by Admin on . Posted in Men's, News.

SSE Airtricity Men’s First Division: Athlone Town AFC v Wexford FC

Date: February 16th, 2024

Kick-off: 7.45pm

Venue: Athlone Town Stadium

As the excitement builds up for the season opener between Athlone Town AFC and Wexford FC, we are eager to see how this encounter unfolds at the Athlone Town Stadium. With the kick-off scheduled for 7.45pm, both teams are looking to start their campaign on a high note. Here’s everything you need to know ahead of this much-anticipated match.

Dario Castelo stated, “It’s great to finally get going and we are happy to begin at home”. “For us it is important to put everything into practice that we worked on in preseason. The team are looking forward to it” he added.

Team News

Athlone Town AFC enter this season with high hopes and a refreshed squad. During the off-season, we’ve made several signings in key positions to bolster our ranks, aiming to improve on last year’s playoff place. The team has had a good pre-season, getting much needed minutes into players in friendly matches. However, there are a couple of injury concerns, with Jamar Campion Hinds still sidelined with injury and Ruben Candal a doubt for the opening match.

Wexford FC, on the other hand, has also been active in the transfer market, bringing in young talents and experienced players to enhance their squad depth. Their fans would have been delighted to have secured the core of last year’s squad that achieved a fourth place finish last season. A familiar face to Athlone Town Fans Thomas Oluwa signs on a permanent deal. Wexford are likely to be without Cian O’Malley who has missed most of pre-season through injury.

Past Encounters

Athlone Town and Wexford FC have had a number of closely contested encounters in the past seasons, with the teams playing four times last season and both teams winning two of their games. Historically, matches between these two have been unpredictable, offering plenty of excitement and lots of goals. With both teams looking stronger and more ambitious this season, this opening game is expected to be no different.

Key Players to Watch

For Athlone Town AFC, much will depend on their new signings, especially the attacking players who have impressed in pre-season games. But key for Athlone will be central defender, Dylan Hand who returned to the club after eighteen-month spell away and will be crucial in organising the backline and keeping Wexford’s attackers at bay.

Wexford FC will rely on Wexford native Mikie Rowe, who joined from Galway United. He will be under the spotlight, and we expect him to bring goals to the impressive front line of Wexford.

Match Tickets
Tickets for the game can be purchased by clicking here.

Referee Team
Referee Chris Sheehan
1st Assistant Referee: Conor Harkin
2nd Assistant Referee: Sean Stephens
4th Official: Mark Moynihan

A Look Back in Time: Athlone Town AFC’s Historic First Official Game

Written by Admin on . Posted in News.

February 9th, 1887 – A day etched in the annals of Irish football history, marking the debut of Athlone Town AFC on the footballing stage. In a friendly encounter that pitted the newly formed club against Castlerea FC of Co. Roscommon, the teams battled to a goalless draw, but the match was far from uneventful. It was a display of passion, skill, and the beginning of a legacy that has endured for over a century.

The game was played in front of a large and enthusiastic crowd, eager to witness the birth of a footballing institution. Despite the lack of goals, the spectators were treated to a competitive match that showcased the potential of Athlone Town AFC.

The Starting Eleven: Pioneers of Athlone Town AFC –

Goalkeeper (GK): E. Medcalf

A stalwart between the posts, his performance set a high standard for future goalkeepers at the club.

Defenders (DEF): T. Lahey – J. Medcalf – J. Halpin – L. Hogan – R. Baile

This formidable backline proved impenetrable on the day, laying the foundation for the club’s reputation for defensive solidity.

Forwards (FOR): O.R. Coote – J. Hodson – G. Bale – M. Morga – T. Langstaff

The attacking contingent, though unable to find the back of the net, showed glimpses of the flair and creativity that would become a hallmark of Athlone Town’s play.

A goalless draw that promised much more, the game against Castlerea FC was characterized by spirited competition and mutual respect. Both teams had opportunities to score, but the defenses held firm, and the goalkeepers were in fine form, ensuring the match ended 0-0.

This historic encounter was more than just a football match; it was the beginning of Athlone Town AFC’s journey in Irish football. From these humble beginnings, the club has grown into a cornerstone of the sport in Ireland, with a rich history and a passionate fan base. The players who took the field that day were pioneers, laying down a legacy that has inspired countless players and fans over the decades. Their commitment, passion, and love for the game have been the guiding principles of Athlone Town AFC.

The first official game of Athlone Town AFC on February 9th, 1887, against Castlerea FC, may have ended in a 0-0 draw, but it marked the start of a storied journey. It’s a reminder of the club’s humble origins and a testament to the enduring spirit of football. As we look back on this historic occasion, we celebrate not only the beginning of Athlone Town AFC but also the growth and development of the sport in Ireland. Here’s to many more years of footballing excellence from Athlone Town AFC.

To read more about the club’s 137 year history to date, click here.

Athlone Town AFC are delighted to announce ‘Football For All’ initiative

Written by Admin on . Posted in News.

Special Announcement

At Athlone Town AFC, we believe football is for everyone. In our ongoing efforts to make our games more accessible and enjoyable for all fans, we are thrilled to announce an exclusive offer for our community members who are wheelchair-bound or vision-impaired.

Free Season Tickets for You and Your Carer

This season, we are offering free season tickets with access to both our men’s and women’s games to our fans who are wheelchair-bound or vision-impaired, along with an accompanying ticket for their carer. It’s our way of saying thank you and ensuring that everyone can enjoy the beautiful game.

Limited Spaces Available – Act Now

We have a limited number of spaces available due to space. To ensure you don’t miss out, please contact the club as soon as possible to reserve your place. Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis, so we encourage you to reach out to us directly to secure your season tickets. Please Click Here and the club will contact you directly.

We are excited to welcome you and your carer to our family of fans. Your support means the world to us, and we can’t wait to share the excitement of the upcoming season with you.

Let’s make this season unforgettable – together.

2024 Home and Away kits launched

Written by Admin on . Posted in Men's, News, Women's.

We were delighted to launch our new Home and Away kits at today’s League of Ireland launch at Vicar Street in Dublin.

Laurie Ryan represented the all black new home kit at the Women’s Premier Division launch with Senior Women’s manager Ciaran Kilduff.

Jarlath Jones kitted out in our new all white away kit at the Men’s First Division launch with Senior Men’s manager Dario Castelo.

Our traditional black and blue colours will be on our third kit this coming year.

We hope to make all of our kits available to purchase around the middle of February. Keep an eye on our social media channels for updates.

See the gallery below for images from today’s launch:

  • Ciaran Kilduff and Laurie Ryan
  • Dario Castelo and Jarlath Jones
  • Laurie Ryan
  • Jarlath Jones
  • Ciaran Kilduff
  • Dario Castelo
  • Women’s Premier Division Group Photo
  • Men’s First Division Group Photo

TG4 confirm fixtures for live broadcast

Written by Admin on . Posted in News, Women's.

TG4 have announced that they will start off the 2024 SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division season by showing four games on free-to-air television. One of which involves Athlone Town against last season’s league winners, Peamount United.

Saturday, April 13th

Athlone Town AFC v Peamount United, Athlone Town Stadium, Kick-off: 7.35pm, LIVE ON TG4

We are pleased to see TG4’s continuation of it’s coverage of women’s football in Ireland and the excellent coverage they have provided games at Athlone Town Stadium and elsewhere around the league.

How you can watch the game:

Saorview: channel 4

Sky: channel 104 

Virgin Media: channel 104  (and channel 602 for kids),

Eircom live stream

Northern Ireland – Sky: channel 163

Virgin Cable: channel 877

Freeview: channel 51.

Worldwide: TG4.ie Player, IOS App and Android App.

All of our other league games are available on LOI TV.

Match Preview: v Shamrock Rovers u20s

Written by Admin on . Posted in Men's, News.

Permanent TSB LFA Senior Cup: Athlone Town AFC vs Shamrock Rovers u20s

Date: Tuesday, February 6th 2024

Kick-off: 7.45pm

Venue: Athlone Town Stadium

The final groupstage game of the Permanent TSB LFA Senior Cup takes place tonight, a win for The Town would see us top the group and progress to the next phase of the competition.

Team News

Ruben Candal and Jamar Campion-Hinds are both out with injury for this game. It is hoped that both players will be fit for next Friday’s SSE Airtricity Men’s First Division opening game at home to Wexford FC on February 16th.

Key Players to Watch

Amardo Oakley will be looking to impress having officially signed for the club last weekend.

Tickets for the game can be purchased by clicking here.

Match Preview: v Bohemian FC

Written by Admin on . Posted in News, Women's.

Pre-Season Friendly: Athlone Town AFC vs Bohemian FC

Date and Time: Saturday, February 3rd 2024

Kick-off: 2pm

Venue: Athlone Town Stadium

This weekend is the first game for the 2023 FAI Cup Champions Athlone Town AFC as they prepare to face off against Bohemian FC in what promises to be a great match in both teams pre-season preparations. In what is both teams first game of pre-season it will be great to see both teams in action. Athlone welcome a familiar face back to Athlone Town Stadium with Ken Kiernan taking up the Managers job at Bohs during the off-season.

Team News

Cup Champions Athlone come into this match with high spirits with a couple of new signings. Fans will have a chance to see Jenaya Robertson, Casey Howe and Kerry Browne all pull on the jersey for the first time. The squad has been training hard, focusing on their preseason preparations and coach Ciaran Kilduff is quoted as saying “This game comes at a perfect time in our pre-season. The girls are flying it and now we get to work on match sharpness”. Fiona Owens who is at the end of her recovery from a long-term injury is expected to return to play also. Ciara Glackin is still a few weeks away from making her return.

Past Encounters

Recently we have seen some memorable battles between these teams. Last year on TG4 we saw Athlone losing 2-0 at half time, worked hard for a comeback and thought they snatched a draw in the 93rd minute when Madison Gibson equalised, only for Mia Dodd to score a winner for The Gypsies 60 seconds later.

Key Players to Watch

For Athlone Town, captain Laurie Ryan could be pivotal in this match. She has become a real leader on and off the pitch and will look to drive the girls on following a brilliant run-in last season. On the Bohs side manager Ken Kiernan has recruited well and his new signing Alannah McEvoy from Shamrock Rovers, will be looking to impress.

Tickets for the game can be purchased by clicking here.

Match Preview: v Longford Town

Written by Admin on . Posted in Men's, News.

Permanent TSB LFA Senior Cup: Athlone Town AFC vs Longford Town

Date and Time: Tuesday, January 30th 2024

Kick-off: 7.45pm

Venue: Athlone Town Stadium

The first El Clasico of the year takes place tonight at Athlone Town Stadium. Although it is Permanent TSB LFA Senior Cup, The Town are determined to build on last Monday’s 3-2 win over Maynooth University Town in the first round of the competition.

Team News

Athlone Town come into this match on the back of a 3-1 friendly defeat at home to Shelbourne over the weekend. Jamar Campion-Hinds is still recovering from an injury and is not expected to feature. Speaking to the ATAFC Media Team, Dario Castelo stated “It’s always special to play at home in front of our fans and in a game that, as usual will awaken a lot of emotions for everyone”. “For us without taking away the competitive component and clear objective of wanting to win, it will be another game that is part of the growth process” he added.

Past Encounters

The Town are unbeaten in El Clasico since May 2022. Winning three of the last six Midlands Derbies. Dario and his squad will be hoping to extend this great run of form into the 2024 season and beyond.

Key Players to Watch

Dylan Hand has began pre-season postively following his return to the club. Providing consistently positive performances in his centre back role.

Longford’s recent addition Chris Lyons brings a wealth of experience to their club as he has more than 300 League of Ireland games under his belt scoing 74 times and is expected to be their danger man tonight.

Purchase your tickets for the game by clicking here.

Match Preview: v Shelbourne FC

Written by Admin on . Posted in Men's, News.

Pre-Season Friendly: Athlone Town AFC vs Shelbourne FC

Date and Time: Saturday, January 27th 2024

Kick-off: 6pm

Venue: Athlone Town Stadium

This weekend, the stage is set for Athlone Town AFC prepares to face off against Shelbourne FC in what promises to be a much needed match in both teams preseason preparations.

Team News

Athlone Town comes into this match with high spirits following a win in the Permanent TSB LFA Cup earlier in the week. New signing Ruben Candal may make his first appearance for the club having started training midweek. Jamar Campion-Hinds is carrying a knock and has been ruled out for the game but may return on Tuesday in the LFA Cup. The squad has been training hard, focusing on their preseason preparations and coach Dario Castelo is quoted as saying “It’s important that we can get a good run out against a very good side”. He stated the that squad was in good spirits for the game with a formidable Shelbourne side.

Past Encounters

History has seen some memorable battles between these teams. One such meeting was the FAI Cup Quarter Final where Athlone won 4-1 to progress in the competition. Fans may know the Shels scorer on the day Ciaran Kilduff.

Key Players to Watch

For Athlone Town, Shane Forbes could be pivotal in this match. He has bags of talent and will be looking for a good showing against his former club. On the Shelbourne side Sean Gannon is looking to impress his new boss Damien Duff, the strong defender who was part of ten League of Ireland winning sides and is the one of the most decorated players in League of Ireland history.

Purchase your tickets for the game by clicking here.