Crusaders Football Club can confirm that long-serving midfielder and club stalwart Philip Lowry will return to his hometown side Limavady United when the transfer window opens, completing a heartfelt move that closes a golden chapter at Seaview.
As part of this significant transfer, Crusaders and Limavady United will play a Benefit Match in honour of Philip on Thursday, 10th July at Seaview Stadium, with kick-off at 7.45pm. All proceeds from the game will go directly to Philip, in recognition of his extraordinary service to the club and the game.
Lowry has been the heartbeat of Crusaders FC since his arrival in 2016. Over a decade of unmatched commitment and excellence, he made 348 appearances and scored 78 goals, many of them in high-stakes, defining moments that brought glory to the North Belfast side.
During his storied career at Seaview, Philip played an instrumental role in delivering our Danske Bank Premiership title in 2018 and an astonishing three Irish Cup triumphs (2019, 2022, 2023), among other domestic honours such as multiple County Antrim Shields. His ability to influence games with his box-to-box dynamism and eye for goal became a trademark of Crusaders’ success throughout the decade.
A natural leader, Lowry inspired those around him with a fierce competitive spirit, unrivalled professionalism, and a relentless hunger to succeed. Whether wearing the armband or leading by example, he has left a lasting legacy at Seaview.
Manager Declan Caddell, who played alongside Philip for years before taking the reins in the dugout, paid an emotional tribute:
“Philip Lowry is nothing short of a Crusaders legend. I had the honour of sharing the pitch with him for many years, and now the privilege of managing him. He was a leader in every sense—his drive, professionalism, and hunger to win were unmatched. He leaves behind a legacy that will inspire future generations at this club. We’ll miss him greatly, but we know he’ll continue to shine at Limavady United. He deserves every accolade coming his way.”
Lowry’s return to his boyhood club Limavady United is a fitting next step in a remarkable journey—one defined by loyalty, leadership, and lasting impact. Crusaders Football Club extends its deepest thanks to Philip for his outstanding service and wishes him continued success in the next chapter of his career.
We urge supporters to come out in force for the Benefit Match at Seaview on Thursday 10th July, 7.45pm KO, to give Philip the send-off he richly deserves.