Kerry Football Club is excited to announce the appointment of Colin Healy as the club’s new First Team Manager, effective immediately.
Healy, a highly respected figure in Irish football, brings a wealth of experience, leadership, and passion that perfectly aligns with the club’s long-term vision, core values, and commitment to striving for excellence.
Having built a distinguished reputation through his playing and coaching career, Colin Healy is known for his ability to develop players, instil a winning mentality, and create a dynamic, competitive squad. His deep understanding of the game, coupled with his focus on structured progression, makes him the ideal leader to guide Kerry Football Club. His arrival marks an exciting new chapter, one that promises ambition and development across all areas of the club.
Healy brings with him a wealth of experience as both a player and a coach. As a player, Colin had a distinguished playing career, having played for Sunderland AFC, Ipswich Town FC, Scottish Premiership champions Celtic and Cork City FC in the League of Ireland. After retiring from the professional game, Healy moved into coaching and quickly made his mark at Cork City FC, where he served as Head of Academy. In that role, he was instrumental in the development of young talent, many of whom progressed and excelled with the first team. He was later appointed First Team Head Coach and went on to guide the club to the SSE Airtricity Men’s First Division title in 2022.
Most recently, Healy served as the Assistant Manager to Eileen Gleeson in the Republic of Ireland Women’s National Team coaching setup. His background in both senior and youth coaching will be invaluable to Kerry FC—not only for the continued progress of our men’s first team, but also in supporting the further development of both our underage men’s & women’s Academy teams.
Kerry Football Club would also like to sincerely thank Conor McCarthy for his dedication and contributions during his tenure as First Team Manager. Conor has played an integral role to date, and his commitment has been invaluable. Kerry FC is pleased to support his request to remain involved with the coaching staff, where he will continue his development under Colin Healy’s expert guidance. The current members of the backroom staff will also stay in place.
This announcement signals a bright future for Kerry Football Club. We look forward to the challenges ahead and are excited to see the passion, experience, and vision Colin Healy brings to the team, all while embracing the spirit of our tribal kingdom. Kerry Football Club remains committed to evolving, competing, and reinforcing our presence within Irish football.
Colin Healy, First Team Manager:
“The last year has been the toughest of my life since losing my wife, Kelly. During that time, my main focus has been to help my two young children cope with the loss of their mother and help them find some form of normality. On behalf of my family, I would sincerely like to thank every person who has supported me privately and publicly.
Kerry is a very special sporting county, and the club has made incredible strides over the past few years. During our conversations, Billy Dennehy’s passion and unwavering dedication to the continued growth of the game in Kerry has been so impressive. In combination with John Wall’s support, I believe Kerry FC are at the beginning of a very special journey, and I will do everything I can to help build on the exceptional work which has already been done at the club. I am very grateful for the opportunity and feel so hungry to get going“
Conor McCarthy, First Team Coach:
“I’m grateful for the opportunity to continue my coaching development at Kerry FC. Working alongside Colin Healy will be an invaluable experience, and I look forward to contributing to the Club’s success in a new capacity.”
Speaking on Colin’s arrival at Mounthawk Park, Kerry FC CEO Billy Dennehy said.
”Colin Healy’s appointment marks a significant step in our short history. His experience, leadership, and commitment to player development align perfectly with our core values. Colin’s vast experience and understanding of what it takes to build a successful football club made him the clear choice to help us climb this mountain of Irish football. His commitment to excellence ensures that Kerry Football Club will continue to grow, inspire, and represent the community in the best possible way.
I also want to extend my gratitude to every person who has played a part in bringing League of Ireland football to Kerry. Your dedication and hard work have been instrumental in reaching this milestone, and it’s a testament to the achievements we’ve all made together. Now, with the guidance and support of our Chairman, John Wall and the proven track record of success that Colin brings, we are entering an exciting new chapter.
A challenge that our community can take on together.”
Colin’s first game in charge will see him in the dugout on Friday night in Tralee as we take on Treaty United in a Munster Derby. We encourage all our supporters to come down and give Colin a big Kerry welcome.
