CILLIAN TOLLETT SIGNS PRO CONTRACT WITH GALWAY UNITED

Galway United is thrilled to announce that academy graduate Cillian Tollett has signed his first professional contract with the club. The 16-year-old striker’s journey from Oughterard AFC to Eamonn Deacy Park is a testament to his dedication, talent, and hard work.

Tollett, who joined Galway United’s academy at the age of 14, has progressed through the ranks, representing the U14s, U15s, U17s, and U20s before making his senior debut during the 2024 season against St. Pat’s. Reflecting on that moment, Cillian shared:

“It feels great. All the hard work to get on the pitch and earn a contract. You see the players playing on TV and you don’t actually imagine yourself playing with them. So when John asked me to warm up, I wasn’t thinking too much about it. I didn’t expect to come on, and then out of nowhere he asked me to.

I’m used to playing in front of 20 people and not 5,000, so it was unreal and a class experience – I can’t wait to play in front of the fans at Eamonn Deacy Park this season and show them what I can do”

Watch Cillian Tollett’s interview in full here:

Manager John Caulfield praised Tollett’s achievement, emphasizing the importance of developing local talent:
“It’s a special day for any player to sign their first professional contract. For us, having Cillian come through the academy is exactly what we aim for as a club. Over the past few years, we’ve had several academy players progress, including Alex Murphy, Dave Tarmey, Steven Healy and Kyle Fitzgerald. Cillian is the next in line, and we hope to see many more follow his path.”

Caulfield also highlighted the role of local partnerships:
“Cillian’s journey from Oughterard AFC to Galway United is a proud moment for everyone involved. For us it’s all about building all those relationships with the school clubs around the city and county and giving their players the highest platform in our academy, hoping that they can go on to be professional players.”

Watch John Caulfield’s interview in full here:

Oughterard AFC Chairperson Barney McAleer expressed pride in Tollett’s achievement:
“Everyone at Oughterard AFC is thrilled to celebrate Cillian signing his first professional contract with Galway United! Starting with our club at just five years old, Cillian represented Oughterard AFC with dedication until the age of 14 before progressing to Galway United. His journey is a testament to the incredible support and guidance from his coaches at both clubs, and most importantly, his relentless work ethic and determination to reach the highest levels of the game. We are immensely proud of Cillian’s achievements and eagerly anticipate the next chapter of his football career. Wishing him every success in the future!”

Galway United Chairperson Jonathan Corbett also commented on the achievement:

“Cillian’s signing is a proud moment for Galway United and reflects our commitment to developing local talent. His journey from Oughterard AFC to our academy and now the first team highlights the importance of strong partnerships with local clubs and the pathways we’re creating for all of our young players.

Cillian’s hard work and dedication have helped bring him to this point, and his achievement is an inspiration to aspiring players across the region. We’re excited to see him continue his journey with Galway United and look forward to what the future holds for him.”

For Tollett, the focus is now on the future:
“The coaches are great for giving you the opportunity to play up the age groups, it’s a great pathway because they help you develop to the best you can be, and they do the best they can for you.. I can’t wait to show what I can do. My goal is to keep improving, contribute to the team, and make the most of this opportunity.”

Cillian’s family also had a huge role to play as he stated: “My family have all been so supportive and helped me on this journey, I wouldn’t be where I am without them” Pictured centrally below is his father Tulsen.

Tollett’s development is a prime example of the Player Development pathway available at Galway United, from Grassroots to League of Ireland to the underage National Team. His signing marks another milestone in Galway United’s commitment to developing homegrown talent and strengthening the connection between the club and the community.

CONGRATS CILLIAN!