North Mayo club snap up decorated former LOI captain for 2026 season

Ballina Town FC have landed one of the most high-profile signings in Mayo football ahead of the 2026 Super League season with the capture of former League of Ireland standout David Cawley.

The 34-year-old Ballina man returns to where it all began, having first kicked a ball with his hometown club before going on to enjoy a long and decorated career at senior level.

Cawley moved to England in 2007 after joining Ipswich Town, where he spent four years before returning to the League of Ireland and establishing himself as one of the league’s most consistent performers.

His finest years came with Sligo Rovers, where across two spells he played a central role in a trophy-laden period for the Showgrounds side. Cawley helped Rovers to the League of Ireland Premier Division crown in 2012, followed by FAI Cup success in 2013 and the Setanta Sports Cup in 2014.

He made over 300 appearances for Sligo Rovers and remains among the club’s top ten appearance holders of all time.

Cawley also enjoyed time with St Patrick’s Athletic, winning the League of Ireland Cup in 2016, while further spells with Galway United and Finn Harps added to an impressive domestic career.

Now back in Ballina, he will be hoping to play a key role for Mick Duffy’s side as they look to mount a serious challenge for silverware in 2026.