Brett makes winning start as head coach role confirmed
Gordon Brett's tenure as head coach of the Athlone Town senior men's team began with a 2-0 home win over Cobh Ramblers last Friday night.
Goals from Valerii Dolia and Adam Lennon secured victory for Athlone over the Cork outfit. The result leaves Athlone fifth in the First Division table, one point behind Ramblers.
Meanwhile, Athlone Town AFC has confirmed Brett's appointment as head coach, saying his experience as a player and coach and his "deep ties" with the club "will help him chart a successful new era for the club, both on and off the pitch".
Stating that it was pleased to announce Brett as the club’s new head coach, a statement from the club provided details of his previous involvement.
Brett served as the club’s head video match analyst for the past three seasons as well as an academy coach for the past five seasons. The club said he has “an unparalleled track record of helping players reach the highest levels of football”.
The club stated: “Brett began his football career as an Athlone Town player before playing with Galway United in the League of Ireland. He has served as head coach of Athlone Town’s U21 team in the former U21 National League, as assistant manager to the first team, and was previously the head coach of the Irish Colleges international squad, a squad he also played with as captain.”
In accepting the role, Brett paid tribute to Dermot Lennon, who had worked with closely during their time in joint charge of the senior team. Lennon continues in his director of football role with Athlone Town.
“I’m delighted to accept the role of Head Coach of the Athlone Town Association Football Club, a team that I have been a fan of since I was five years old,” said Brett.
“I grew up with sporting heroes including Padraig O’Connor, Michael O’Connor, Dennis Clarke, and Noel Larkin. I look forward to connecting with Dermot and pushing the first team forward for the rest of the season.”
Brett added: “I want to thank Valeo Futbol, which is helping Athlone Town AFC recapture the imagination of the local community as well our fans for all of their support.
"Taking on this role is the honour of a lifetime, and I look forward to being part of a successful new era for the club, both on and off the pitch.”
Brett is also well known locally for his role as Sport & Recreation Manager with Technological University of the Shannon (Midlands Campus), the third level body formerly known as Athlone IT.
Founded in 1887, Athlone Town Association Football Club is the oldest club still competing in the League of Ireland.