US businessman Michael Smith says he has fulfilled a lifelong dream after buying into Carrick Rangers Football Club.
Carrick say the deal will differ from other models, with Smith's influence set to primarily focus around a marketing strategy that will boost revenue streams into the club. "Peter and I are merely stewards of the club. The commitment to the community is a big part of what attracted me to Carrick Rangers. It is such a symbiotic relationship between club and community.
"So many people have counted Carrick out but, make no mistake, it is a club on the ascent. Peter and the Board have been building a strong foundation on and off the pitch and Stuart has shown he can get the most out of a team on the pitch. It has been reported that the club would receive in the region of £600,000 this season and a further £3m over the 2024-25 financial year to help with improving areas including new stands, changing rooms, toilets and training rooms.
“Medium term: to enhance the quality of the squad and the general infrastructure of the club. On the field last season, we achieved the most points and highest position in our top flight history. Looking at the infrastructure, significant investment has been made to improve our pitch and upgrade many areas of the ground. Coupled with the council’s strong commitment to replace the stand, which is really at its expiry, we clearly have met our medium term goals.