Former Finn Harps player Johnny Dunleavy appointed Waterford FC Academy Director

The Ballybofey native, who enjoyed a fine League of Ireland career with Cork City, Sligo Rovers and Harps, takes up the newly-created role as part of the League of Ireland Academy Investment Programme.

Dunleavy, who also spent time cross-channel at Wolverhampton Wanderers, emerged as the standout candidate during a recruitment process that began earlier this year and has already commenced work with the Blues.

The 34-year-old made more than 200 League of Ireland appearances during a playing career spanning almost a decade.

He is perhaps best remembered for his spell at Cork City, where he played a key role in one of the club's most successful periods.

Named captain of the Leesiders in 2015, Dunleavy helped Cork City win the Premier Division title in 2017 as they battled Dundalk for domestic honours. He also represented Sligo Rovers and Finn Harps before bringing his playing career to a close in 2021.

Dunleavy's move into coaching began during his time at Sligo Rovers, where he worked closely with the club's Under-19 side. Since relocating to Kilkenny, he has combined playing and coaching duties with Evergreen FC and currently holds a UEFA A Licence.

As Academy Director, Dunleavy will oversee all areas of Waterford's academy structure. The position had been filled on an interim basis by Gary Hunt, who combined the role with his duties as the club's Women's First Team Head Coach.

Speaking following his appointment, Dunleavy said he was eager to get started and build on the work already carried out within the academy.

"It's been great to get started," he said. "I knew the start date was coming for a while and I couldn't wait to get going.

“The first few weeks have been busy meeting people and getting a feel for the structure that's already in place.

"The facilities and structures that are here are phenomenal and you can clearly see the work that has been done over the years. There are a lot of fantastic people involved and plenty of strong foundations already in place."

Dunleavy believes his experience as both a player and coach will stand to him in the role.

"I've experienced academy football as a player and I've also worked on the coaching side, so I understand the challenges and opportunities from both perspectives," he said.

He also welcomed the increased investment in academy football through the League of Ireland Academy Investment Programme.

"To see the commitment from the FAI and the Government is brilliant. Having full-time staff focused on developing local talent can only benefit Irish football as a whole.

"I'm privileged to be part of the first wave of that and I'll do my level best to make sure it's a success."

Waterford FC Chief Operating Officer Richy Walsh said Dunleavy's appointment represented a significant boost for the club.

"I'm delighted to welcome someone of Johnny's calibre to the team," Walsh said.

"He brings a wealth of experience and a real drive to succeed and will be a fantastic addition as we continue to build on the outstanding work that has been done within the academy over recent years.

"The introduction of full-time academy roles marks a significant step forward for academies across the country and demonstrates a genuine commitment to youth development and the long-term growth of the game."