Peter Grogan has completed a move back to Ireland, leaving Austin FC to sign for Athlone Town ahead of the 2026 League of Ireland First Division season.
The striker brings his American dream to a close after nearly two years, opting for a return home in search of regular first-team football and a fresh opportunity to make an impact.
The Crettyard man took time out to talk to LaoisToday and reflect on his American journey while he now looks forward to what the future holds with Athlone Town.
Grogan explained that the decision about leaving had been building towards the end of last season, with his long-term development in mind but he will never forget his time living the dream.
He said: “It was really at the end of the season last year; I was thinking it was the best option for my career to move back home to Ireland.
“My main thought behind it was just try to get back into first team football and get as many minutes as possible and opportunities under my belt.
“I just wanted somewhere I could use all my strengths and to play to the best of my ability.
“Another reason on my decision to return home which was a big factor, the style of play in Austin FC didn’t suit me, and I believe a return to Ireland is in my best interests so I can use my strengths and help Athlone Town to their goals this season.”
Grogan admits the decision to leave America was not an easy one as he still had a year on his contract but the pull to return home to play with Athlone Town and to be close to his family and friends were a huge factor in his hard decision.
“It was definitely one of the toughest decisions I’ve faced, there was a year left on my contract and the thought was that I would see that contract out as I had another year guaranteed.
“But I think my decision to join Athlone Town is the right one and I hope I can have a big year for the club.
“I won’t lie family and friends were a big reason for my decision too, I’m very close to my family, talking to them about it was a factor. I wouldn’t say I was very homesick but being that far away was tough.”
Although, Grogan made the tough decision to leave the club, the 18 months he endured in Austin FC and America were special, not only he grew as a soccer player but more importantly he grew as a person while living the dream.
“My time in America and Austin was amazing to be honest. The lifestyle there was absolutely class.
“Austin is a great city and everything about it was amazing I couldn’t complain about it one bit. Playing full time football was a dream come true.
“The players and all the staff, everyone involved was top class from the minute I joined the club.
“Going into a full-time environment in Austin, without a doubt it improved me as a player. Training day in day out and playing against a lot of quality players, technically I have improved so much compared to the player I was before I went over to America.
“Probably the biggest thing though, I’ve grown so much as a person, I’m grateful I had the opportunity.”
Grogan’s attentions have now quickly turned to his new club Athlone Town; he is eager to make a strong impression and admits that the familiarity of the league and the manager Ian Ryan all played a part in sealing the deal as Grogan had other interested clubs in signing him.
“What I would like to say to the Athlone fans that don’t know me, I am fully committed and dedicated.
“I go out to play every game to try to win, I will go out there every game and give one hundred percent and hope to make my time at the club a success.
“I had a couple of offers on the table. Athlone Town really attracted me as we are in the First Division again, I’ve been in the division before.
“I know the manager Ian Ryan well, I worked with him before. We have a good relationship. I think the style of play really suits my game.”
Looking ahead to 2026, Grogan is hoping his performances will help the club achieve their goal of making the playoffs and ultimately get to the Premier Division.
“The main goal for us this year is to make the play-offs and try and get promoted to the Premier Division
“Personally, I want to get as much minutes as possible and score lots of goals. Every game I play I’m looking to score and contribute to the team as much as I can.”
With experience gained abroad and a renewed hunger at home, Peter Grogan returns to the League of Ireland determined to make the next chapter of his career a successful one with Athlone Town.
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