Waterford FC is delighted to announce the signing of exciting attacker Ben McCormack ahead of the 2024 League of Ireland Premier Division season.
The young winger joins the Blues from St. Patrick’s Athletic, for an undisclosed fee, where he made over 70 first team appearances since his debut at just 17 years of age.
The 20-year-old joined St. Patrick’s Athletic at the end of 2017 from Dublin schoolboy side Belvedere FC, before going on to win the League of Ireland U17 title in 2019, winning Man of the Match in the League final win against Bohemians at Richmond Park where he scored twice in a 4-0 victory. The following year, Ben was involved in St. Pats’ U19’s League win, before getting the chance to play in the UEFA Youth League against Red Star Belgrade in 2021.
Ben has vast experience in the League of Ireland to-date, as well as representing the Republic of Ireland from U15 right through to U19s as recently as 2021.
McCormack has two FAI Senior Cups to his name, winning two of the three most recent editions of the prestigious competition with St. Patrick’s Athletic, in 2021 and as recently as the start of November in 2023.
Ben becomes the latest new signing for Keith Long’s side ahead of the Blues’ return to the 2024 Premier Division, with Robbie McCourt and Darragh Leahy both joining the club from Dundalk FC.
Speaking to WaterfordFC.ie on his move to the RSC, Ben commented:
“I’m delighted to be here. When Keith rang me and asked me come, I was delighted because I knew it was a great opportunity to play games and show what I can do.
“I can’t wait to play at the RSC next season. I played a few times down in Waterford, it’s a tough place to go and always packed out, always full, so I can’t wait to get going down here now.
“Keith rang me a few weeks ago, and we had a good chat where he said his plans to me and what he expects. I liked everything he had to say; he sold it to me so it was a no-brainer for me really to come down here.
“It’s the first time for me having a change [of club], so I’m buzzing to meet all the lads. I know there’s a few Dublin lads – the likes of Darragh Leahy, Robbie McCourt and Ryan Burke – so I can’t wait to meet them and the rest of the boys.”
Head Coach Keith Long was delighted to secure the signing of Ben McCormack, saying:
“Ben is an excellent young player and we’re delighted to have him at the club. It’s a new challenge for Ben and an opportunity to play.
“He’s highly rated and highly regarded and we’re looking forward to working with Ben this season as we continue to assemble our squad.
“I’ve known Ben since his Belvedere FC days and he’s excited to be here too. It’s important we bring in players who want to push themselves and this is an excellent opportunity for Ben to realise his potential at Waterford FC.”
