Joe and Rodney McAree present Jonny with a token from the Swifts to mark his retirement.
As some people are already aware central midfielder Jonny Topley announced it was time to hang his boots up in our last game of the 2013/14 campaign. At the age of 33, coming on for the final half hour of our 0-0 draw away to Coleraine, Jonny made his final appearance for Dungannon Swifts. Portadown native Topley has spent the majority of the last 12 years at the Swifts across two different spells and has been a key part of the midfield throughout his time with us. In recognition of his services to Dungannon Swifts, Jonny was presented with a gift from the club at our Annual Awards night by Joe and Rodney McAree on behalf of the Swifts.
Adam McMinn in action for the Swifts.
First team manager Darren Murphy broke the news to those in attendance making a very emotional speech about Jonny who was not only one of his first team players but also, his cousin. Darren wished Jonny well in his retirement and was quick to make him aware that there will always be room for him at Stangmore in a coaching/management etc. role if he ever decided to go down that line. As a club we would like to reinforce those sentiments from Murphy and wish ‘Toppers’ a happy retirement. All the best Jonny.
In addition to the exit of Topley, Adam McMinn has opted to take a break from the game for a while. Having joined the Club in 2003 McMinn is one of the current longest serving players at the Club. Adam has this message to pass on to all Swifts fans,
“I have decided to take a break from football for a while. As many of you know I have had a difficult season with injuries. Maybe I’m just getting too old. I have really enjoyed my 11 seasons at the Swifts. I have won a few medals and have travelled through Europe with the team. The standout moment has to be my penalty against Cliftonville in 2007 to put us in the Irish Cup Final. No doubt with the team and management we have in place it won’t be long until our next final! I am grateful to the club and the supporters who have encouraged me over the years especially when things weren’t good in my personal life. I wish the club every success in the future and plan to support the club as I played-not always skilfully but passionately! Thanks again for everything. Adam.”