Rice makes Rovers return as under-17s boss

Shamrock Rovers have unveiled Stephen Rice as their under-17 coach for 2017.

The former Hoops midfielder returns to the club after announcing his retirement last year.

Rice replaces Aidan Price, who has moved up to take over the club's under-19 team following the departure of Marc Kenny.

His coaching record includes taking charge of the DDSL Kennedy Cup squad for two years and his role as the FAI U15 Futures Development Squad Head Coach.

Dubliner Rice played with Bohemians, Monaghan United and Longford Town before retiring after a short spell with Glentoran in 2016.

The 32-year-old was part of the Hoops side that reached the Europa League group stages in 2011, picking up two league titles along the way.

“I am delighted to return to the club where I spent 6 very happy years in my playing career and where I have my best memories in the game as a player,” Rice told the Shamrock Rovers website.

“I'm looking forward to coaching and developing the best young players for Shamrock Rovers F.C. There is something exciting happening at the club at the moment and I am looking forward to being a part of the project.

“Our aim is to give our best young players an alternative to moving to play in the UK at 15 years of age.

“Shamrock Rovers Academy will allow our best young players to continue their school education at home and still develop as an elite player with a realistic path to first team football at Shamrock Rovers."

New under-19s boss Price will be assisted by John Martin, who took over from Kenny midway through the season following his departure from Shelbourne, where he was assistant to Kevin Doherty.

Rice's appointment completes a busy day for the Hoops, who earlier announced the signing of Paul Corry from Northampton Town, Daniel Devine from Firhouse Clover, Ryan Connolly from Galway United and Roberto Lopes from cross-city rivals Bohemians.