MIKE KERLEY

MIKE KERLEY was appointed as the new manager of Athlone Town FC before the start of the 2011 season.

The former Limerick and Waterford United boss takes over from Brendan Place as manager of the Lisseywollen outfit for the 2011 season. Kerley spent 16 years playing for Kilkenny City, Limerick and Cork City before pursuing his coaching career. He currently holds a UEFA Pro Licence.

The Limerick native guided his local club to the play-offs in 2003 and is currently involved in coaching UL’s Collingwood Cup side.

Athlone Town chairman Tony Knight told www.athlonetownfc.ie: “While the appointment of a manager has taken longer than many expected the committee felt it was very important that a decision was not rushed into and the person coming to the club had the abilities to develop the club structure from the underage set up through to the first team.

"Mike has the foresight, qualifications and experience to bring Athlone Town forward and we look forward to him developing strong teams here at the club."