Rory Hale (born 27 November 1996) is an Irish footballer who plays for Cliftonville in the NIFL Premiership.

Club career

Aston Villa

Hale started his career at Aston Villa, and regularly played in their Under-23s side, and eventually becoming captain. Hale was released by Aston Villa aged 20, and trialled at Sheffield United and West Brom before signing with Galway United.

Rory Hale

Galway United

Galway United announced the signing of Hale in August 2017. Hale joined Derry City in January 2018.

Rory Hale

Derry City

Hale joined Derry City in January 2018 along with his brother, Ronan. The brothers’ grandfather is Derry City legend Danny Hale.

Rory Hale

Crusaders

Hale joined NIFL Premiership side Crusaders in January 2019. His grandfather, Danny, also played for Crusaders, scoring over 100 goals. His great-uncle Gerry also played for the club. In 2019, Rory's brother Ronan also joined. In 2019, Hale won the Irish Cup with the Crues, and was an unused substitute in the final.

Cliftonville

Crusaders’ North Belfast rivals Cliftonville signed Hale in 2021.

International career

In 2014, Hale made two appearances for the Northern Ireland under-19 team. In 2019 he was called up to the Republic of Ireland under-21 team but did not make an appearance.

Honours

Derry City

League of Ireland Cup: 2018

Crusaders

Irish Cup: 2018–19

County Antrim Shield: 2018–19

Cliftonville

Irish League Cup: 2021–22

References

1996 births

Living people

Cliftonville F.C. players

Derry City F.C. players

Galway United F.C. players

NIFL Premiership players

Association footballers from Belfast

Men's association footballers from Northern Ireland

Crusaders F.C. players

Men's association football midfielders

League of Ireland players

Republic of Ireland men's under-21 international footballers