The Students striker had a major role in securing their return to the Premier Division for 2022, bagging 25 goals in all competitions this season. During November’s play-offs, he scored a brace against Treaty United before his superb free-kick and a
The Students striker had a major role in securing their return to the Premier Division for 2022, bagging 25 goals in all competitions this season. During November’s play-offs, he scored a brace against Treaty United before his superb free-kick and a clever assist earned Andy Myler’s side victory over Bray Wanderers. It was a fitting end to the campaign as Whelan then popped up with the winner in the promotion/relegation decider with Waterford. “To win the award is a great feeling,” the 21-year-old said. “I’m over the moon. “It’s nice to be recognised and to be the first player from a First Division club to win it since 2015 (UCD’s Ryan Swan).” Whelan’s form has seen him capped for Ireland at U21 level, while he was also nominated for the PFAI First Division and Young Player of the Year awards. Like Ireland and Wexford Youths midfielder Ellen Molloy, the Kilkenny native has come a long way since lining out for local side Thomastown United. “Ellen won the Women’s National League award for November as well so Thomastown will definitely be buzzing with that,” he adds. “They’re a great club and they’ve always supported us so we’re happy to be making them proud.” Chris Forrester - who lifted the FAI Cup with St Patrick’s Athletic - finished runner-up in the voting, while Sligo Rovers teenager Johnny Kenny was third.
