Oliver won the award for his work with the Carrick Rovers senior and U15 squads. FAI Technical Director Packie Bonner praised Martin for his “dedication, talent and commitment as a coach.”

The Coach of the Year award was recently introduced to recognise the contribution of coaches at grassroots level. The award was named in honour of Noel O’Reilly, who, after enjoying huge success as a coach at underage, senior and international level, tragically died last September.

Noel made a huge contribution to football at all levels and was involved in a hugely successful era for Irish underage teams which produced many of the current members of the senior international squad.

Oliver Martin was awarded the Noel O’Reilly Coach of the Year award by Packie Bonner and Rose, Noel’s partner.

Oliver completed his UEFA B Licence in Athlone in January of this year.  He made a great contribution on the course with his friendly and enthusiastic manner that rubbed off on fellow participants and staff.

He is involved in coaching for the last 7 years and works between 14 to 20 hours per week in coaching.

Oliver currently coaches the Carrick Rovers U15 squad and senior squad. 

He has had success with the U15 team over the last 3 years in both league and cup competitions and has assisted in the development of players to both Emerging Talent and International underage level. 

Oliver also gets involved in coaching in the wider community.  He coaches on the NEC Emerging Talent centre, works with Special Needs groups twice weekly at Kingspan Century Park, and is involved in Community games, Monaghan United mini-leagues, and FAI Summer Camps.

He is currently involved in developing the Inter-Cultural programme for Monaghan United along with the Club Promotion Officer.

Oliver is known as someone who will never return down a request for assistance from any group.  Oliver’s philosophy is that that of providing football opportunities for all despite any barriers that may stand in the way.