Coleraine Football Club today announces a significant transition at board level, with five long-serving directors stepping down as the club enters a new chapter. Colin McKendry, who has served on the board for 16 years, including 14 years as Chairman, together with Raymond Smyth (15 years), Allister Kyle (12 years), Richard McFetridge (9 years) and Mark Kane (7 years), have all resigned their directorships with effect from 4th June, 2026. Between them, they have given the club almost 60 years of service.
What happened?
The departures mark the end of an era at the club - one in which Coleraine moved from part-time to full-time football, restructured for sustainability, and this season finished as Irish Cup winners with European football to follow. Chairman Henry Helle-Ross praised the outgoing directors, saying, "These five men have given Coleraine Football Club years of service in a period of profound change for the club and for Irish football. They have carried the club through a transition that no previous generation of directors faced, and they leave it in a stronger position than they found it."
Why it matters for Coleraine FC
The club is in a strong position heading into the new season, having finished third in the Northern Ireland Premiership last season with 65 points, 20 wins, 5 draws, and 8 losses from 33 games. They ended the season on a five-game winning streak, including a 3-2 victory over Dungannon Swifts on 2nd May 2026. With European football on the horizon, the new board will look to build on this success.
What comes next?
Coleraine FC will now look to the future with a new board in place. Their next fixture is at home against league leaders Larne on 15th August 2026. The club will aim to continue their strong form and challenge for silverware in the upcoming season.
