Rockmount legend Derek Clarke has given a lifetime of service as player and coach

After nearly four decades of dedicated service to his beloved Rockmount AFC, Derek Clarke has become more than just a familiar face at the club — he’s a cornerstone of its identity. 

Having worn many hats over the decades, from player to coach to kitman and various other roles, Clarke was recently honoured by those who hold him in the highest regard: the Rockmount community itself. 

Though he's stepping back from full involvement with the senior team, his passion remains undimmed, as he continues to nurture the club's goalkeepers across all levels with the same commitment and care that has defined his long-standing contribution.

The 54-year-old father of two spoke passionately about his love for the club and how he will continue to be involved as much as he can.

“I decided to take a step back from the running of the team this season however I am still involved with goalkeepers during the week while also helping out with the committee when required,” said Clarke.

“Overall I'm over 35 years with the club from playing as a goalkeeper until unfortunately I couldn't play anymore due to a knee injury then went on to be a goalkeeper coach. I also took on roles with the seniors as assistant manager/first team coach, kitman and first aider, old-school," jokes Clarke.

LEGENDS

“I’ve had such fantastic memories over the years my highlight being to start as an U12 goalkeeper under the management of Timmy and Gene and to play alongside a legend like Roy Keane and great players like Damien Martin, Len Downey, Paul McCarthy, Philip Murphy, Mark Hurley, Jason Lynch and Eric Horgan to name just a few. 

"To go on and play senior with the club, to coach and have a lot of success and then to work with the Irish amateur team are definitely memories that will live with me for life.” 

Derek Clarke believes that goalkeeping coaches, though scarce, are hugely important in the development of the club.

“In my opinion goalkeeper coaches are very important to every club. 

There should be one at every level to encourage young goalkeepers so hopefully that can be worked on down the line.” 

Surprised but grateful with his recent recognition from the club, Clarke spoke highly of those involved.

“With regards to the presentation I recently received it was a lovely touch from the senior team. It was a recognition of my commitment to the success to the senior team. The award was very much appreciated and the captain Ian Moylad gave a lovely speech.” 

OUTSTANDING

Club legend and former manager Billy Cronin has paid a heartfelt tribute to the outstanding work of Clarke, acknowledging both his past achievements and the continued impact he is sure to make.

“Derek has been an outstanding member of Rockmount and one of the best signings I ever made,” said Cronin. 

"Over the years, he became not only my right-hand man but also a great leader within the club. Derek had great success as a manager with us, always leading with commitment and integrity. He is someone Rockmount can always rely on – now and for many years to come.” Ken Hoey, a long-serving and respected player at the club, expressed high praise for Clarke, highlighting the significant value he brings to the team both on and off the field.

“Derek is a man who brought high standards and professionalism to the dressing room every week from the day he came to Rockmount,” said Hoey.

"He was always the first one to training and the last one to leave, which didn’t go unnoticed by all the players and staff. 

There wasn’t a thing that Clarky wouldn’t have done for anyone in the club, no matter how big or small, it was done without hesitation. 

"I believe Rockmount wouldn’t have been so successful in all them years without the input of Derek and I personally want to thank him for the last 25 years when we set on the Rockmount journey together, and I speak for all the past and present players who all spoke highly of him. What a clubman he is.”