Skinner hails Carrick Rangers as 150 US investors descend on Carrickfergus

(L-R) Investors John Demakas and Chris Fechter on a visit to Carrickfergus, pictured with local Alliance councillor for Knockagh, Aaron Skinner

Mid and East Antrim councillor Aaron Skinner (Knockagh) has led the praise for Carrick Rangers after a landmark weekend that brought 150 American investors to Carrickfergus—shining an international spotlight on the town and its football club.

The visitors, part of a wider group of more than 2,200 investors backing the club, travelled from the United States for Carrick Rangers’ first ever international investment conference, combining business, community engagement and football into a single high-profile event.

Their trip ended on a high at Taylors Avenue, where Carrick Rangers delivered a memorable 2–0 victory over Linfield—providing the perfect showcase for the club’s ambition.

A fresh perspective on Carrickfergus

Reflecting on the weekend, Cllr Skinner said the visit offered a powerful reminder of the town’s appeal.

“It was absolutely brilliant to see. People were stopping to take photos of things we walk past every day without thinking twice. You forget what’s right on your doorstep until you see it through someone else’s eyes.”

He said the scale of international interest demonstrated real confidence in both the club and the wider area.

“For people to come all this way and put their money into the club says a lot. There’s clearly a belief in what Carrick Rangers are doing, but also in Carrick itself and what it has to offer.”

Investors highlight heritage and welcome

Among the visiting group were investors John Demakas and Chris Fechter, who both spoke about the deeper connections behind the trip.

John said:

“There are so many Americans with deep ties to Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland that are so happy to create new connections with the communities that their families came from. This truly is a great opportunity.”

Chris added:

“I would just like to thank the people of Carrickfergus for being so friendly and welcoming to us and I look forward to visiting again.”

Their comments underline how the initiative is not only about investment, but also about reconnecting people with their heritage and strengthening community ties.

More than football

Cllr Skinner emphasised that the impact of the weekend extended far beyond the pitch.

“This isn’t just about football. It’s bringing people into the town, supporting local businesses and putting Carrick on the map in a different way. That kind of exposure is massive for us.”

The influx of visitors provided a boost for the local economy while showcasing Carrickfergus to an international audience.

Leadership praised as club looks outward

He also paid tribute to those behind the initiative.

“Hats off to Peter Clarke and Michael Smith for pulling this together. It’s not easy to do something like this, but they’ve shown what can happen when you back an idea and stick at it.”

The success of the conference reflects a growing confidence in Carrick Rangers’ long-term vision, with international backing playing an increasingly important role.

Perfect finish on the pitch

The US visitors enjoying action on the field as Carrick Rangers delivered a win over Linfield

The weekend’s defining moment came with the team’s performance against Linfield, delivering a result that capped off the visit in style.

“You couldn’t have asked for a better finish to the weekend. A solid win over Linfield in front of the visitors just topped it off and showed exactly what the club is about.”

Building momentum

With global interest growing and new connections being formed, the event marks a significant step forward—not just for Carrick Rangers, but for Carrickfergus as a whole.

Cllr Skinner concluded by wishing the club continued success as it builds on its expanding international profile.

At a glance

• Councillor Aaron Skinner praised Carrick Rangers after hosting US investors

• 150 American investors visited Carrickfergus for a landmark conference

• Visitors are part of a wider group of more than 2,200 backers

• Investors highlighted strong Irish heritage links and community connections

• Carrickfergus was praised for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere

• The visit ended with a 2–0 win over Linfield at Taylors Avenue

• The event boosted local businesses and tourism in the town

• Club leadership credited for delivering a major international initiative

• The weekend raised Carrickfergus’ profile on a global stage

• Momentum is building as Carrick Rangers expand international reach