Exciting teen Aaron McLaughlin pens new contract at Finn Harps

Academy graduate Aaron McLaughlin has signed a new three-and-a-half year contract at Finn Harps.

The 17-year-old scored a superb debut goal in a recent 3-0 win over Treaty United at the Markets Field.

The Kerrykeel teenager has been at Harps since he was 12, joining from Mulroy Academy, and has been elevated to the first team by manager Dave Rogers.

“Aaron has shown real maturity with his development and progression through our academy program and the fact he has already stepped up to the first team and scoring a goal on his full debut shows he displays the qualities required to step up in levels of performance,” Rogers said.

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“To have Aaron tied down on a three and a half year contract now enables him and his family to feel secure and for us as a club and group of coaches to hone in on an elite learning program to enhance Aaron’s personal and collective development.

“Aaron knows that the hard work starts from now and that his attitude and commitment must constantly improve on a daily basis if he wants to reach his goals and achieve his dreams.”

Rogers was keen to note that McLaughlin is one of eight players from the academy system to make their full first team debuts for Harps this year.

He said: “This is an area I firmly believe in and there is no better feeling as a coach or a fan when one your own prodigies comes through the home grown player pathway system we now have in place.”

Kevin McHugh, Head of the Finn Harps Academy, said: “He's a great lad to work with and has a super positive attitude to playing the game. His attributes are there for everyone to see. He has electric pace with and without the ball and has an eye for goal.

“Being in with the first team setup after his exams will help him develop his game even further. Aaron is an example for our younger and older players: Work hard, stay positive and chances will come your way.”