We are delighted to announce that Jude O’Hara has become the latest student athlete to sign a professional contract at the club.
The 18-year-old full-back joined the Scholarship Programme back in 2022 and quickly established himself as a key player, becoming the captain for Andy Mitchell’s U18 side during his first year on the programme.
Putting in consistent performances week after week, the young full-back made a seamless transition to the U20 NIFL squad, managed by his father Keith O’Hara. Quickly earning the captaincy of the side once again, the defender has been described as a leader out on the pitch and played a huge role in the club’s Harry Cavan Youth Cup glory back in April.
Although yet to make a senior appearance for Tiernan Lynch’s side, O’Hara has shown promising attributes during his time at the club on the Scholarship Programme which has earned him professional terms at Inver Park.
Jude was delighted to sign his first-ever professional contract, stating:
“I’ve enjoyed a really good two years on the Scholarship Programme and it’s great to top that all of with a professional contract.
“In my first season, we finished second in the league and really wanted to push on this year and I think we done so, winning the Harry Cavan Youth Cup.
“Both on and off the pitch, I feel that I have progressed massively since joining the club. My school work has improved, I’ve been able to get physically stronger, and improve technically as a player.
“Being captain throughout my time on the Scholarship Programme has helped me become a better player and learn what it’s like to lead both on and off the pitch.
“I’ll keep working hard to develop my game and hopefully in the season ahead, I’ll be able to gain experience in senior football.”
