'A club with huge potential': Jon Daly named new Waterford head coach

Daly's appointment comes following a "thorough and detailed" search.

Sun, 16 Nov, 2025 - 18:12

PJ Brownr

Waterford FC have appointed Jon Daly as the new head coach of their men's team. The 42-year-old previously managed Dundalk and St Pat's, and was most recently an assistant coach under John Caulfield at Galway United.

He will take over a club which only preserved their Premier Division status following a play-off victory over Bray Wanderers. Last season was one of upheaval at Waterford with Keith Long departing as manager in April and being replaced by John Coleman. He left in September with Matt Lawlor eventually guiding them to safety.

“It’s an honour to take charge of Waterford FC. Waterford is a club with huge potential, and my job is simple — unlock it. I believe that’s done by setting high standards every single day," said Daly.

"The people of Waterford expect fight, pride, and passion. If we can match the energy in the stands and transfer it onto the pitch, this club can go places it hasn’t been in a long time.

"There’s a big challenge ahead to build a team that works for each other, plays with intensity and never hides. The challenge really excites me and I’m looking forward to getting immersed in the Waterford community and meeting all the players, staff and supporters.”

Waterford chairman Jamie Pilley said the appointment was made following a "thorough and detailed" search over recent weeks.

"During the process we spoke to a number of people regarding the role, as we move into a fresh start for the club, and Jon was a stand-out candidate," said Pilley.

"Jon is a vastly experienced person who knows the League of Ireland and what it takes to be successful in it - this was a huge part of the attraction for us and something we were determined to have with this appointment.

"He now has the off season to recruit and prepare for what we hope will be an exciting season at the RSC.”