Ballymena United appoints Clearbox to drive marketing and communications strategy

L-R John Megaughin, Managing Director at Clearbox, Chris Selwood, Ballymena United Chairman and Neil Coleman, Client Director at Clearbox

Ballymena United, one of the leading clubs in the Sports Direct Premiership, has appointed communications consultancy Clearbox to support the club’s marketing and communications campaigns as it looks to strengthen its brand and increase match ticket sales.

The NIFL Premiership club confirmed that Clearbox will lead the development and implementation of a new communications strategy, refine brand positioning and deliver key messaging. The agency will also roll out a digital marketing campaign designed to increase ticket sales and expand the club’s reach among supporters.

New communications strategy and digital campaign

The partnership marks a significant step for Ballymena United as it continues its rebuilding phase following financial challenges two years ago.

Clearbox will support the club in shaping a refreshed communications strategy aimed at strengthening its presence across digital platforms, enhancing engagement with supporters and driving commercial growth.

The consultancy brings extensive experience in sports communications. The Clearbox team supporting Ballymena United will be led by Neil Coleman, former Head of Communications and Digital Innovation at the Northern Ireland Football League, alongside John Megaughin, who has worked with major sporting organisations including the Professional Darts Corporation, FIFA, UEFA and the International Olympic Committee.

Chairman: “We’re debt-free, ambitious and building something special”

Speaking on the appointment, Ballymena United Chairman Chris Selwood said:

“Ballymena United is on a mission to become one of the leading sports organisations in the UK and Ireland. After emerging from financial difficulty two years ago, we’re now debt-free, ambitious and building something special.

“As a club with the best facilities in the league, we want partners who are the best at what they do and that’s why we’ve partnered with Clearbox.

“The agency works with some of the biggest brands in the world, and has a unique understanding of communications in sport. We’re excited to be working with Clearbox and have already seen the impact of their professionalism, knowledge and creativity.”

The chairman’s comments underline the club’s intention to build on renewed financial stability while investing in growth, both on and off the pitch.

Clearbox: “We know this league, we know these fans”

Neil Coleman of Clearbox said:

“Having spent years at the heart of Northern Ireland football communications, I know exactly what it takes to cut through in this space. Ballymena United is a club with real history, a passionate fanbase, and a board that’s genuinely driving the club forward.

“Working with our Clearbox team to help deliver that vision is something I’m really looking forward to. We know this league, we know these fans, and we know how to get results.”

John Megaughin added:

“Neil and I have spent our lives on the Ballymena terraces, so to be stepping inside the club in a professional capacity is something genuinely special. Ballymena United is a giant of the Irish League and a club that’s clearly on the move with a board that means business.

“We’re honoured to be partnering with Chris, Liam and the team to build on that momentum, and we’re confident we can make a real difference on and off the pitch.”

Their long-standing connection to the club is expected to resonate with supporters, as the consultancy combines professional expertise with personal ties to the Ballymena terraces.

About Clearbox

Clearbox is a leading communications consultancy delivering campaigns across local, national and global markets. The agency specialises in reframing brand and business challenges to spark long-term innovation.

Its current client portfolio includes Amazon, AWS, Deliveroo, Morelli’s Ice Cream, Ring, SistersIN, The NI Wedding Directory, Toast and WellFest.

For Ballymena United supporters, the new partnership signals a renewed focus on growth, stronger digital engagement and increased visibility for one of Northern Ireland’s most established football clubs.