Declan Roche has worked as a placement and recruitment coordinator, primarily in Ireland, since joining the PSC team. Roche is a former professional player who spent six years in the Scottish Premier League with the Giants Celtic FC from 1985 until 1991. He is a licensed UEFA A head coach at Dublin University and has a multitude of close contacts within Irish professional football. Roche has won three Irish Premier League titles and an impressive number of domestic trophies during his professional career.
Favorite travel destination over the years?
It’s a tough one as I’ve been to so many places but the places that standout are Carlsbad, California and Ireland of course!!
Most memorable match?
It would be a game against a select Japan university team in Antalya,Turkey in 2016. A fantastic venue and performance against a Japan team that were superb. Our American select team played fantastic that day and we claimed a 1-1 tie.
Funniest memory from last 10 years?
One Certainly is when Paul (Director) lost his key to the room in the hotel in Orebro, Sweden a few summers ago. Unfortunately for him the reception was closed when we returned from dinner and he ended up sleeping on the floor of my room with the air conditioning on full blast.
Most meaningful success story and why?
Wilfred Tagbo who was on our Turkey tour a few years ago! He went through to play in professional game from his sheer determination and hard work. I ended up recommending him to Finn Harps in the Irish Premier League after a great tour and he played 2 years with the club.
Favorite player you have worked with and why?
Paris Rosarie in Sweden a few summers ago. Exciting powerful quick winger and great to watch moving with the ball. He helped us with the U18 BK Forward Cup in Orebro, Sweden. Andy Hackbarth was another really good guy. Very intelligent person and ended up getting some trials in Sweden and America. He didn’t get contract offer but should have got a deal somewhere in my opinion. A very well mannered but tough center back!
What’s been the hardest thing about the job?
The Final speech at the end of every tour. I always feel a touch of sadness leaving all these great guys trying to progress in professional football! Having to work with Martin O’Connor and Patrick Walker was another tough thing. I would say Patrick Walker. I don’t think I would get any rest with how much he can talk!
Which PSC member of staff over the last 10 years would you hate to room with on tour?
I would say Patrick Walker. I don’t think I would get any rest with how much he can talk!
If there was one message you could say to aspiring professional players from your 10 years’ experience what would it be?
Never give up, you never know who is watching! Always have Plan B for your life and career if football doesn’t work out.
Where do you see PSC in 10 years time?
I think developing a good youth program is something that you will see!
Overall favorite memory from the last 10 years?
That is easy! It would be falling off my bike twice in 1 hour in Orebro, Sweden. Say no more! Ha!