Waterford native Dean O’Halloran has become the latest player to sign for Waterford FC ahead of the SSE Airtricity League Premier Division season, scheduled to kick off in February. O’Halloran, who played locally with Southend United before moving to Fulham in England, returned to Ireland initially to Bohemians, then joining the Blues during the 2017 off-season.
Despite the winger suffering an injury shortly after his arrival, he went on to make 18 appearances in total, enough to claim a First Division winner’s medal.
Dean was a huge hit with the young Blues’ fans and he is looking forward to performing in front of big crowds at the RSC again in 2018.
“It’s surreal how 2017 went because it was something that we’ve dreamed of for so long here in Waterford and it was great to be part of it. I’m delighted that I’ve gotten the opportunity to be part of the club going forward in the Premier Division in 2018.
“It’s a big step up for the club but it’s a challenge that we’ll be all relishing and we’ll see where 2018 takes us. It was great to see the crowds return to the RSC last season especially the young kids and I’ve no doubt that we’ll see even bigger attendances next season.
“We’ll all have to have to work really hard in the Premier Division because there are no hiding places. I got the chance to taste it with Bohemians when I came back from Fulham and I know that it is a big step up from the First Division, so we know that we need to improve but we’re all looking forward to getting started.”
Commenting on the signing of O’Halloran, Waterford FC First Team Coach Alan Reynolds said:
“Dean is another player who has the experience of playing International football at underage level and who has tasted Premier Division football here in Ireland, with Bohs, so he knows what to expect. Despite his young age, his experience will be vital to us.
“He is a very good player who really excites the crowd especially the young kids and I know that we haven’t seen the best of him yet. He is another local lad who is willing to work hard and we are very pleased that we have him on board for 2018.”
