Irish League club confirm former Cliftonville star as new manager in 'no-brainer' decision

O’Hara will succeed Paul Hamilton, who led the Belfast outfit to their best-ever league finish of fourth last term before confirming his decision to step down on Friday due to health reasons.

Having made 230 appearances for the Reds and also had spells with Coleraine and Donegal Celtic, O’Hara moved into coaching through the youth system at Cliftonville, developing the next generation of stars at Solitude.

O’Hara served as assistant manager to Paddy McLaughlin for over four years – during which time Cliftonville won a League Cup crown – and took over as interim boss to round out the 2022/23 campaign following McLaughlin’s departure in April 2023.

He was appointed to McLaughlin’s coaching staff once again at Glenavon ahead of last season, joining Colin Coates, but they departed the Co Armagh club in September after a winless start to the Premiership campaign.

O’Hara is now taking on his first senior head coach role in the Irish League and can’t wait to get started.

"When I was contacted by the Newington I was delighted to get involved," he said. "I've been out of the game for a while, so it was a no-brainer for me to come on board.

"It's a great challenge for me and I'm looking forward to it.

"The season Newington had last season was unbelievable. With me coming in and the staff that's there, we're hoping we can build on that next season.

"Newington is one of my local clubs and, to be honest, I wish pre-season was starting tonight because I'm busting to get started and can't wait to meet the players, all the staff and board members."

Newington enjoyed a golden period of success under Hamilton’s leadership, winning two Steel & Sons Cup crowns in 2017 and 2021 alongside celebrating Premier Intermediate League title glory during the 2021/22 campaign.

Only H&W Welders (87) scored more league goals than Newington (77) last term with star striker Jay Donnelly topping the individual charts – the former Glentoran forward struck 29 times in 36 matches.

"It's with a heavy heart we announce the departure of our head coach Paul 'Hamo' Hamilton who is stepping down from first team duties due to health reasons,” the club posted announcing Hamilton’s departure. “'Hamo' joined the managerial set-up in 2017 and played an integral role in overseeing the 'Ton win their first-ever Steel & Sons Cup in his first season.

“He was also key to the club claiming the Premier Intermediate League title and a second Steel Cup in a remarkable 2021/22 campaign.

“A warrior footballer for the club during the 1990s and Noughties', 'Hamo' has always been a hugely popular figure at the club.

“While he will still be around and attending games next season, no-one will forget his incredible contribution both on and off the pitch.

“'Hamo' has been a loyal foot soldier for over three decades who invested everything into keeping Newington at the top table.

"It is fitting he leaves his post following the club's highest-ever finish - fourth place - in the NIFL Championship.

“We wish him and his family health and happiness as he watches his beloved team from the stands next season.”