Strabane Athletic manager Mo Mahon believes Ciaran Coll will have a “massive” impact after convincing the former Glentoran defender to join the Championship newcomers over a cup of tea amid interest from “five or six clubs”.

Coll won an FAI Cup during a six-year stint at Derry City before joining the Glens in January 2025, making 17 Premiership appearances for The Oval outfit.

The 34-year-old has significant experience in full-time football, playing 170 times for the Candystripes across competitions, and will now provide crucial leadership as Strabane prepare for life in Northern Ireland’s second-tier.

Having worked in Derry City’s academy while Coll was a senior star at the Brandywell, Mahon was well aware of his qualities both on and off the pitch, but knew the defender would have an array of options for the next step of his career.

placeholder image — Strabane Athletic's new signing Ciaran Coll. (Photo by Strabane Athletic)

However, after presenting Strabane’s vision for the future following another season of progression up the Irish League pyramid, Mahon was able to seal the deal.

"I think we were at the bottom of the queue to be honest, he was chatting to five or six clubs, but I asked him to meet me and hear me out,” said Mahon. “The fact he did showed there was a bit of interest to listen.

"We had a chat over a cup of tea and he was really impressed with what he heard...there was nothing said for the sake of it.

"He was really excited about the project and already knew a fair bit about Strabane, about the players, about the project.

"Ciaran doesn't make decisions on a whim, he's thorough and I think in the meeting he knew he wanted to sign for us.

"He knows some of the players and he knows me, which is a big factor.

"He has an idea of how I work and I certainly know how he works because I know managers who have worked with him, they all had great things to say about him.

"It's a massive signing. I know about his ability, that goes without saying, the ability and quality he has, but as a character, person and leader, you can't buy the leadership qualities he has.

"He's going to be massive for us, both on and off the pitch, setting standards. We know we're lucky to have him.

"He wants to enjoy his football, wants to be closer to his family, he's a family man so all of that's important to him.

"He fits into what Strabane is all about – family connections and community – and he will set seriously high standards.”

Only formed in 2010, Strabane have now recorded consecutive promotions, finishing second in their maiden season in the Premier Intermediate League last term, and also celebrated North West Senior Cup glory earlier this month by beating Limavady United in the final.

Mahon knows stepping up to the Championship represents a massive jump for Strabane, making Coll’s arrival – and Sean McCallion signing a first professional contract – even more significant.

"When you attract someone of Ciaran's calibre, it will help in other areas too,” added Mahon. “Sean McCallion is someone who turned down five clubs in January to stay, he didn't get a penny more, and in this off-season a few other clubs have made him offers.

"Sean was a massive player for us last season and he has decided to stay.

"Signing Ciaran is massive for the club in helping to attract other players, but having Sean tied down and signing for the season is equally as big because he's a massive prospect.”