Newport County is pleased to announce the appointment of Exiles legend Mark O’Brien as its official Club Ambassador.
Mark, who scored that memorable ‘Great Escape’ goal to keep the club in the Football League on the final day of the 2017 season, will take up the post with immediate effect.
It means the 32-year-old former defender, known more affectionately as just O.B, will swap his training ground boots for a County in the Community tracksuit and club suit.
He will spend his time working in the community, supporting matchday hosting duties at Rodney Parade and assisting the club’s commercial department.
“I’m really looking forward to developing the new role, my new life and new career,’’ he explained. “I’ve been helping the club on the field, and training ground, for nearly 10 years. Now I want to make a difference off the field as well.
“I want to help more people in the community the best I can. I’ve spent the last two weeks helping the Community department and I’ve absolutely loved it. I’ve visited schools and helped deliver projects like walking football. Witnessing first-hand how Norman (Parselle) and his team operates has blown me away. It’s really opened my eyes to how much they do to support the community and the difference they are making to people’s lives.’’
Mark, who made 127 appearances for the club, will also host the new Club Amber Lounge (formerly Bisley) on a matchday and build relationships with new and current sponsors and partners, including the club’s executive boxes and 100 Club.
He will also assist the club’s commercial department on non-matchdays, a new career path he is keen to explore.
“This club means everything to me,’’ he added. “The club and the community stuck by me when I had my heart problem and this is my opportunity to give something back for that support.
“I want to add more value to the club because I know that when the football club and the community is going in the same direction, and with momentum, then it’s a formidable partnership. It’s a special place to be.’’
You can follow OB in the community on X via @mark_obrien92