An interview Danny Ventre

Danny Ventre has been with Rovers since the summer of 2007. Capable of playing in either midfield or defence, he has put in a number of commited performances. He was rewarded for his efforts in 2009 when he recieved the Forza Rovers Player of the Year.

Photo courtesy of Kevin Finn                                                    

First of all Danny, thank you for taking the time to do this interview:

"No Problem"



Why did you decide to join Sligo Rovers ?

"I knew Paul had come over to manage here, so I got in touch with him and he said come over and have a look. I came over to watch a game against Shams. Sligo won 3-1 I was impressed by the standard of football and the fans, it went from there and i'm still here 3 and a half years later."

Who were your biggest influences when watching football ?

"My Dad, I used to go and watch him a lot growing up. Also my cousin who was a professional at liverpool, he was an influence growing up."

How do you find football in Ireland differs from football in England ?

"Its a lot more Professional. All the players in England seem to be a lot bigger and stronger than over here as well."

Do you think Sligo Rovers can challenge for the league next year ?

"Yes we can if we keep what players we had this year and add a couple more. Its now or never I feel but thats just my opinion."

What's been your favourite performance for Rovers and why ?

"Obviously the final because it was the biggest game i've ever played in and I thought I done well on the day. I done what was asked of me. And the reward of being the first person to lift a trophy in that stadium was what made it better."

If not a footballer, what would you be right now ?

"I couldn't tell you to be honest. I've always worked harder at trying to be a footballer than anything else."

What do you hope to do when you retire ?

"I hope to still be involved in football, even be it refereeing. I don't think ill ever not be involved some way or another."

What was it like to play in the Aviva Stadium in front of just over 36,000 people, and more importantly, how did it feel to lift 2 Cups this season ?

"It was an unbelievable experience one i'll never forget. I'd never thought I would ever lift two cups in one season, players go all their career without lifting one and iv won two in one season. I would be very lucky to match what I have done this year but who knows."

You probably know Paul Cook better than anyone else at the club, having played with him at Accrington Stanley and being his very first signing for Rovers, whats it like having him as a manager ?

"Paul is a top man and a top manager. I have a lot of respect for Paul. He Knows his football inside out. He's the type of manager who will give you encouragement when you need and will pull you back when you get a bit of a big head. His managerial career will only get better with time."

How has this year differed from your previous years with Sligo?

"This year has flown by for me. Previous years we were starting the seasons with only 14-15 full time players, which is not enough at any level. This year the club got the squad sorted and then it was down to us and I think we delivered with what was expected of us as a squad."

How do you feel about your lack of playing time?

"I've played the most games under paul cook than any other player that has been at the club. We played about 48 games in all competitions this year, I played in about 36-38 of them and was suspended for 3 of them. I feel i've made a good contribution this year due to the "lack of playing time" than previous seasons."

We have been linked with alot of players since the season has ended. Which player in the LOI would you most like to see at the Showgrounds?

"I would like to see Gareth McGlynn of Bohs play for us. He can play anywhere in the midfield and he's a threat going forward."

Thanks to Sligo Rovers supporter, David Willis, who provided the last 3 questions.