New Head Coach Fran Rockett in 2023 when he was Cobh Ramblers assistant manager. Photo: Eóin Noonan/Sportsfile

Cobh Ramblers hope fortunes will Rockett!

After a disappointing end to the season following a 2-1 loss on aggregate against Treaty United in the promotion play-off semi-final last week, Cobh Ramblers have overhauled their staff with the appointment of two former players in key appointments.

This week Cobh Ramblers have appointed Fran Rockett as their new Head Coach after the recent shock departure of Mick McDermott and Conor Meade as Director of Football.

Former Waterford FC head coach Rockett will succeed McDermott next season, Cobh announced on Monday while on Sunday Meade was appointed.

McDermott left Cobh after finished second in the First Division but was gone before they faced Treaty United.

Rockett previously served as assistant manager at Cobh under both Shane Keegan and Darren Murphy and also spent four years at Waterford.

A statement described the Waterford native as being “known for his strong coaching philosophy, professionalism, and commitment to player development”.

“His familiarity with the club’s culture and ambitions makes him an ideal fit as Cobh Ramblers continue to build a sustainable and competitive football model both on and off the pitch.”

Ilya Movshovich of Digital Athlete Ventures said: “We are thrilled to welcome Fran back to Cobh Ramblers. His knowledge, experience, and passion for the club make him the right person to lead our senior team forward. We believe Fran is an excellent fit for where we are headed as a club — focused on building strong foundations, developing players, and achieving long-term success.”

Conor Meade, Cobh Ramblers Director of Football, added: “He eats, sleeps, and breathes football and will represent the club with energy and honesty. It’s an exciting appointment, and we as a club will do all we can to help him.”

New director of football

Conor Meade is a former Ramblers player who had a successful playing career in the League of Ireland, including winning a league title and representing several top clubs. As Director of Football, Conor will oversee all footballing matters across the club — from the first team to the academy pathway — ensuring that Cobh Ramblers continues to build a sustainable, community-based football model that develops local talent and strengthens the club's competitive structure.

Ilya Movshovich said: “We're thrilled to welcome Conor back to Cobh Ramblers in this key role.

His knowledge of the game, his experience within the League of Ireland and his connection to the club make him the perfect person to help lead our football strategy into a new era.”

Former player Conor Meade is the new Director of Football. Photo: Cobh Ramblers