How would you summarise the significance and pride of being the first Northern Irish club to reach the UEFA Conference League?
“It was surreal when it happened. Within 24 hours, we were on a whirlwind journey through Dublin, Paris, Nice, and Monaco. In the cold light of day, when you sit down and reflect on where we’ve come from—seven years ago, the club was on the verge of extinction. We fought through the championship, consolidated in the Premier League, won back-to-back titles, and now, for four years running, we’ve competed in European football. It’s truly transformative and a story of resilience and determination.
“Five years ago, we achieved European football as part of our first five-year plan. In our second plan, we aimed for group stage qualification, and to accomplish that just two years into that phase is nothing short of triumphant. It’s a monumental achievement, a testament to overcoming adversity. The pride felt by our members, fans, and the entire community is immense, reflecting the club’s spirit and tenacity.
Kenny Bruce and Tiernan Lynch are often credited for their roles in the club’s success, but as chairman, you’ve been integral to its day-to-day operations. How would you summarise your journey from the beginning to where the club stands today?
“It’s a journey filled with immense pride. We took over a stadium that was closed, a social club that had been written off, and a supporter base that was practically non-existent—around 100 people attending games, with a travelling group of maybe 15 or 20. To see that grow to 400, then 800 as we made improvements, and eventually to the point where we had 3,250 fans when we played Rangers B, has been remarkable. We’ve since built two new stands and now regularly host 1,800 to 2,000 fans, with 2,500 total when we have strong away support.
“The growth of the club, from the brink of closure to competing in Europe, reflects not just an expansion in numbers, but in talent and spirit. The atmosphere created by our 2,500 home fans, like in the game against Lincoln Red Imps, was something I’d never witnessed at Inver Park. Everyone has been part of this journey—whether it’s myself, Niall Curneen, Shay Kennedy, other board members, management, volunteers, or supporters.
“These milestones reflect our collective achievements and strengthen the bond within the club. Each success feels even sweeter because of the journey we’ve all shared. It all culminated in a crescendo last Thursday evening.”
Despite Larne’s success—rising from the championship, winning multiple titles, and achieving European group stage qualification—the club’s connection to the local community has only strengthened.
How has the club maintained and deepened that sense of belonging throughout its journey to date?
“There’s a famous saying in Larne: “You never forget the bowl you were baked in,” and that’s very true. No one here lets you get above your station, and that’s incredibly important to us. One thing we always say is, no matter where we’re going or what we’re doing, we always keep it real. That sense of community and belonging, especially for Kenny and me—two Larne boys coming back to lead this journey—has been about bringing the people along with us.
“If you make false promises or get above yourself, you lose that connection with the people. But we’ve been good at keeping it real. We make people feel warm and welcome, and that’s a big part of what we do off the pitch. Every match, victory, and setback is felt deeply by everyone connected to the club, creating emotional highs and lows that bind us even closer together.”
What challenges have you faced in achieving this success, and how has navigating pushback from established elite clubs contributed to the club’s resilience?
“Drawing from Kenny’s business experience with Purplebricks as a disruptor in the housing market, we approached football with a similar mindset. When we entered the championship, Tiernan had just endured nine straight losses, and we were without a home. Despite these challenges, we rallied and made strategic moves in the January transfer window, bringing in experienced players familiar with the Irish League.
“By convincing these players of our vision and commitment, we were able to secure promotion to the Premiership. Once there, as disruptors challenging established clubs like Linfield, Glentoran, Coleraine, Crusaders, and Cliftonville, we faced pushback. However, we remained steadfast in our belief that our plans would benefit both Larne Football Club and the Irish League as a whole.”
Given the extraordinary success of European qualification, how do you envision the future for Larne, especially with the financial boost and increased attention from competing in European football? What are your expectations moving forward?
“We remain committed to our established path. Our goals include defending our Gibson Cup, retaining the County Antrim Shield, winning the League Cup, and securing the Irish Cup—something our supporters deeply desire. In Europe, while no one expects us to win or advance, we have set a mini target for points and aim to perform well.
“This success lays a strong foundation for future generations, ensuring long-term stability. It also plants the seed for aspiration, setting ambitious goals for both domestic and European achievements. Each milestone contributes to legacy building, enriching the club’s history and creating a legacy that can be cherished for years to come.
“We aim to grow our scholarship program, integrate young players from our academy, and possibly see them attract interest from clubs in England or beyond. With our investors to keep satisfied, we focus on winning and competing while adhering to our clear, long-term plans.”
Finally, Gareth, given the immense personal investment you’ve made in Larne, how eagerly are you anticipating this European adventure, especially in light of all that’s been achieved to date?
“I’m looking forward to enjoying the home games, but I’m uncertain about attending the away matches. Balancing a full-time job with my volunteer role means I typically reserve holidays for early rounds, and reaching the group stages was unexpected. I am also set to take up post with a new employer, so I need to discuss the possibility of attending the games abroad with them.
“Working full time is essential for paying the bills and must take priority. However, I’d love to attend our groundbreaking first group stage game in Molde. That being said, if I can’t make it, I’ll be fully supporting the team from the social club at Inver Park. Everyone associated with Larne cannot wait for the league phase campaign to begin and it won’t be long until the first fixture is upon us.”
Callum McFadden 