Oran Crowe ready to take flight after Cobh Ramblers switch

For Oran Crowe, football has always been about dedication, development and making the most of every opportunity. 

Now, at 22 years of age, the Carrigtwohill native has taken another important step in his career by signing for Cobh Ramblers. After an enjoyable and productive 18-month spell with Kerry FC, where he made over 50 appearances, Crowe made the decision to move closer to home. 

“It makes a massive difference not having as much travel,” said Crowe. I’ve gone from having a two-hour spin to training to only 10 or 15 minutes. Over time, that really adds up.” 

During his time in Kerry, Crowe often spent long hours on the road every week. Between training sessions and matchday commitments, he estimates he was clocking up 12 to 13 hours of travel. While he embraced the challenge, the physical and mental demands of constant travel inevitably impacted recovery.

“It’s not ideal preparation spending that much time in the car,” he said. It makes preparation and recovery that bit more challenging.” 

Now living just a short drive from St Colman’s Park, Crowe can devote more time to rest, nutrition, recovery sessions and personal preparation — key elements for any modern footballer.

“This season, I won’t have that empty time traveling, so I can hone in more on my preparation and recovery for both training and matches. Hopefully, that will benefit my performance on the pitch.” 

APPEALING

The move to Cobh came after a conversation with Director of Football Conor Meade, who outlined the club’s ambitions and vision.

“Conor reached out to me about potentially signing, We met up and he explained the aims for the season, the type of people and players they want at the club, and how working with Fran would benefit me and my career.” 

The midfielder signed just a day before a pre-season friendly against Waterford, but he quickly settled in.

“Everyone was very welcoming and made settling in really easy. 

I’d have known most of the lads from playing with or against them over the years, which has helped.” 

Pre-season has been intense, with three matches already played as the squad builds fitness ahead of the new campaign.

“The coaching staff have made the sessions really enjoyable. The season starts in four weeks, so the hard sessions now will give us the foundation for the season coming.” 

Cobh Ramblers narrowly missed out on silverware last year, and expectations remain high.

“The hope for the season is to win the league,” Crowe said. With the calibre of players in our changing room, the aim will be the same.” 

The squad’s experience is a major asset, with players like Cian Coleman, Gary Buckley and Shane Griffin bringing proven success from the Premier Division.

“That experience is massive heading into the new season,” Crowe added.

Competition for places is fierce, but Crowe sees that as a positive.

We have quality throughout the squad covering every position. It creates a healthy environment where we’re all pushing each other.” 

Reflecting on his time in Kerry, Crowe remains grateful for the chapter he spent there.

“I really enjoyed my 18 months with Kerry. I met some great people and developed relationships I’ll keep past football. I’m very proud of my contribution there.” 

JOURNEY

His football journey began close to home with Ringmahon Rangers, a club founded by his mother’s family. He later moved to Midleton, where he won a treble at U14 level, before progressing through Cork City’s academy system. Under the guidance of Billy Woods and Dan Murray, Crowe worked his way from U15 to making his first-team debut in 2020.

Now, as a centre-midfielder for Cobh Ramblers, Crowe is balancing football with his studies — but with less time spent behind the wheel, that balance is easier to manage.

Living in Carrigtwohill and training just minutes away allows him to maximise recovery, improve sleep routines and maintain consistency in his preparation.

In the modern game, where margins are fine and physical demands are relentless, small changes can make a big difference. 

With strong ambitions, a competitive squad, and a clearer focus on rest and recovery, Crowe is ready to make his mark in Cobh colours — and enjoy the journey, both on and off the pitch.