NPSL: Ex-Ireland International Coach Noel Mulhall Signs on at Galveston Pirates

After all the excitement and furore that surrounded the confirmation of entry into the NPSL season 2012 had settled down, El Capitano Keyes decided that if the team was to compete on this higher soccer platform, an assistant coach would need to be sought to alleviate some of the pressure from his broad shoulders.

It would perhaps allow Keyes to spend more time publicising the club in order to raise some more funds, making it more aware to the public. 

After much deliberation, General Manager Brendan Keyes came to the conclusion that there was only one person for the job, one that he could trust, one that could share his extensive knowledge of the beautiful game in a way and manner that only the most foolhardy would ignore.

The names Mulhall, Noel Mulhall, licensed to coach soccer.

Mulhall is synonymous with soccer coaching not only in the Galveston area but also in his homeland of Ireland.

The 73-year-old is no stranger to the world of soccer. His most illustrious period within the game was as the Ireland National Women's team manager for six years. No mean feat!

It's experience like this that first attracted Brendan Keyes to his fellow Irishman way back in 1992 on his first visit to Texas. This would be the first of 12 visits that the FAI-licensed coach has made to date.

Since then, Mulhall has coached many classes and clinics around Galveston. Earlier this year he joked, "Even with all my football (soccer) achievements back home, I think I am better known over here (Texas) within the sport."

Head coach Brendan Keyes is ecstatic at the capture of his old friend: "I think Noel will help us get the guys ready for the new NPSL season because we’re looking to surprise some people in this tournament." Keyes said. "We’re looking to win our division and with Noel on board, we can maybe just do it."

Marc Roseblade is a Contributor for Bleacher Report, Not Just Scottish Football & youth development reporter for Ayr United Football Academy. All quotes are obtained first-hand unless otherwise stated.