'I am not just another disconnected, non-Irish owner': Nick Giannotti completes Athlone town takeover

Irish Examiner

a day ago

Athlone have endured a difficult season, only winning three games all campaign. The departure of Dario Castelo as manager in April was followed by the release of five players - Adam Wixted, Declan McDaid, Kyle O'Connor, JR Wilson and Bastien Héry - in May.
Since then, the club appointed former Wexford and Bray Wanderers boss Ian Ryan in early June, with Giannotti's takeover the next step in their rebuilding process.
Giannotti's vision, he notes, is "rooted in two principles: driving excellence and financial sustainability".
Gianotti's statement read, in-full:
" To the supporters of Athlone Town AFC, it is with great pride and excitement that I write to you today.
"Since my very first conversation about Athlone Town, this moment has been on my mind. It's a privilege to now formally take on the responsibility of leading this historic club into its next chapter.
"First and foremost, I want to thank David Dully, John Hayden, and Michael O'Connor for their dedication and assistance during this transition. Just a few weeks ago, we began this new journey by appointing Ian Ryan as manager of the Men's First Team, a decision that reflects our ambitions and intent.
"As I have yet to spend a significant amount of time on the ground with the Club and in the community, getting to know all of you, please afford me the opportunity to introduce myself briefly. Many of you may be skeptical, as I am not local to Athlone, but I can assure you that I am not just another disconnected, non-Irish owner.
"I was born and raised in San Diego, California, where I grew up playing football for a club called the Nomads and won three national championships.
"As a teenager, I was fortunate enough to spend two summers in the Northwest of England playing with the team, witnessing firsthand the significance of football to local communities.
"My father immigrated to the United States from Italy through Ellis Island. His story echoes that of so many Irish families who made a new life abroad. My wife, whose roots trace back to Cork, also studied at university in Dublin. Together, we have two young children, and our family is proud to now become part of the Athlone community.
"Professionally, I co-founded Redball Energy, a solar company I've had the privilege to lead for over 15 years. More recently, I've had the chance to merge my professional skills and personal passion by serving as a Director and minority shareholder of Plymouth Argyle FC.
"Football is a lifelong passion of mine, and it is with that same energy, respect, and drive that I come to Athlone.
"While I am not from Ireland, I know how much this club means to its supporters and its town. I understand the responsibility of this role. Please know that I am not here to change Athlone's identity. I aim to honour it, to protect it, and to grow it alongside all of you.
"There are many things that my team and I intend to do, but our vision is rooted in two principles: driving excellence and financial sustainability.
"We will invest in the club's infrastructure, our players, and our staff. We will work tirelessly to build financial stability, sustainability, and increase revenue streams, enabling our teams to succeed on the pitch.
"We will become a club that nurtures and showcases young talent, both from Ireland and beyond, guided by data, smart recruitment, and a relentless commitment to improvement, both on and off the pitch.
"Just as importantly, we want Athlone Town to feel like a family. We'll maintain and celebrate cherished traditions, and we'll continue to make this club a source of local pride. You'll see us in the stands, in the community, and hopefully, in the hearts of more and more supporters.
"I look forward to listening and talking with many of you, hearing what this Club means to you, and how we can continue to improve it together. I don't have all the answers, and I won't be able to grant every wish, but I promise to be honest, transparent, thoughtful, and open with you all.
"This journey will have its highs and lows. That's football. But we'll face them together, as a community, as a Club, as a town.
"Finally, later this month and into next, Athlone Town will host the UEFA Women's Champions League. Our hosting of games is a truly special opportunity to showcase not only our team, but also our facilities, our people, and the pride of the Midlands on a European stage.
"Let's make this next chapter something truly special. Thank you for welcoming me and my family. I am so excited to join you all as a massive supporter of the Club and the community."