Reading’s academy once nurtured Pierce Sweeney, the Irish defender who went on to captain Exeter City and now joins Cheltenham Town after a decade with the Grecians. His story begins with a move to Berkshire in 2012, where he spent four formative years with the Royals.
How did Sweeney start his football journey?
Sweeney’s early passion was hurling in Bray, County Wicklow, but a friend’s invitation to play football at eight changed everything. He joined Ardmore Rovers, thriving as a midfielder before switching to defence at Belvedere FC. A move to Bray Wanderers followed, but Reading’s interest in 2012 won him over, with the club’s Irish connections-including Eamonn Dolan, Noel Hunt, and Ian Harte-sealing the deal. League standing (final 2025 table -- new season not yet under way): 12th in League One, 63 pts, 16W-15D-15L from 46 games.
Why did he choose Reading over Everton?
At 17, Sweeney had offers from Reading and Everton. The Royals showed more personal interest, and he felt an immediate connection. He lived with a host family in Winnersh alongside future Cheltenham captain Seán Long, forming a lifelong bond. His time at Reading included winning the FAI Under-19 International Player of the Year in 2013.
What came next after Reading?
After four years with Reading, Sweeney joined Exeter City in 2016, where he became a club legend. Over a decade, he made 435 appearances, captained the side, and earned promotion to League One. Now 31, he’s embraced a new challenge at Cheltenham Town after a call from Steve Cotterill, reuniting with Long, who lives just 15 minutes away.
What’s the current context for Reading?
Reading finished 12th in League One last season with 63 points, scoring 64 goals and conceding 60. Their recent form was LDLLL, and their last result was a 0-1 loss to Blackpool on 2026-05-02. Next up, they face Wigan away on 2026-10-17.
