Harry sat down with CK United’s first-ever Men’s First Team Manager, Tom O’Connor, to discuss his appointment, his vision for the club, and the opportunity to build something entirely new as League of Ireland football returns to the region.
CK United recently confirmed their acceptance into the newly formed Third Tier, a major milestone for football in Carlow, Kilkenny and the surrounding areas. The league will commence with a shortened season this August, with Buckley Park announced as the club’s home venue — marking the long-awaited return of League of Ireland football to the region.
Off the pitch, momentum continues to build. Plans have been submitted by CK United Limited for a new sports facility at Castlemore on the Carlow Road, Tullow. The proposed development includes an astroturf pitch, a grass training pitch, temporary changing rooms, and a modern clubhouse facility featuring a gym, offices, a canteen and a coffee shop. With key pieces falling into place, the club has now turned its attention to building a competitive and sustainable first team.
That task falls to Tom O’Connor, who joins CK United following two years as Academy Head Coach at Shamrock Rovers. Prior to that, O’Connor held the same role at Wexford FC and spent seven years at Bray Wanderers, where he served as U19s Manager and later as interim First Team Coach. He also previously managed Wexford’s U19s during a period when several Carlow League players progressed through the system — experience that gives him a strong understanding of the local talent base.
Speaking to Harry, O’Connor explained that it was the club’s long-term vision and emphasis on development that attracted him to the project.
“I would have the ambition of trying to do things without trying to recruit a lot of players,” he said. “To try and work within the confines of how the club wants to run the first team.
“What really struck a chord with me was the opportunity to create a proper pathway through the club and into first-team football. That excited me, because there is literally a blank canvas.”
With league football returning, infrastructure plans progressing, and a manager with a proven background in youth development now in place, CK United’s focus turns to laying solid foundations — not just for August, but for years to come. Full interview below:
