Larne boss Tiernan Lynch has committed his long-term future to the club by signing a new contract extension.
Tiernan, who has been at the club since May 2017, has overseen a rapid rise through Irish League football since his arrival.
As well as implementing the transition to full-time football at a much-changed Inver Park, promotion to the Danske Bank Premiership was secured at the end of his second season at Inver Park, while he ended the club’s 33-year wait for a senior trophy when the Toals County Antrim Shield was won in December of last year.
Under his management, the push for a first ever European football qualification continues this campaign.
Chairman Gareth Clements was delighted to see the boss put pen to paper at Inver Park today.
He said: “We are absolutely delighted get Tiernan secured on a deal until the end of next season, with the option of one year rolling contracts thereafter.
“Since arriving at the club in 2017, Tiernan and his backroom team have worked tirelessly in laying the foundations required to help us rebuild this proud club, and bring some long overdue days in the sun for our fantastic supporters.
“These three years have seen –
- The creation of a competitive playing staff, that not only won us the Championship but was able to establish itself immediately in the Premiership in year one.
- Successfully navigated the transition from part time to full time football – Perhaps now a blueprint in Northern Ireland.
- Implemented a brand of football that is rightfully admired, and has had benefit in attracting broadcasters and improved the marketability of the club to new players and sponsors.
- Helped us transform the mentality, culture and standards right across the club.
- Delivered our first senior trophy in thirty-three years.
- Had the vision and the drive to implement our Scholarship programme that will grow, prosper and benefit the club for many years to come.
“As a club we strongly believe and endorse the benefits of long-term partnerships, and the success that comes to both parties, through that investment of time in building trust and belief.
“I see formalising our arrangement as sending out a strong message of support, to allow Tiernan to go on and finish the job he and his team has started; with the confidence they have the support of the owner, Chairman and board of directors.
“We’ve had an exciting journey up to now, let’s get behind the club, the management and the team rich in the knowledge that we are all working night and day, to bring you the glory that your support so deserves.”
Tiernan himself was equally delighted to sign the contract extension, after finishing preparations for Saturday’s trip to take on Dungannon Swifts at Stangmore Park.
He added: “I have had great support since I came to the club.
“It was clear the supporters at Larne saw what we were trying to do with a style of football from day one, even in the early days when things were more challenging.
“With the support of Kenny Bruce we have been able to make the vision of full-time football a reality and I think the club will reap the benefits for years to come.
“Myself and the coaching staff have enjoyed some memorable moments in our three and a half years here so far and we are working night and day to add some more to that list.
“We are all counting down the days until the fans are back inside Inver Park and be our 12th man.”
