Glentoran Football Club is marking a major milestone this month as the Internet Glentoran Supporters Club (IGSC) celebrates its 30th anniversary.

The group was formed in April 1996, when seven supporters met in Bangor ahead of that season’s Irish Cup Final with the aim of sharing Glentoran news with fans further afield.

From those early conversations, the IGSC went on to become the first online-based supporters’ club of its kind in Ireland.

In the years that followed, the group secured the domain glentoran.com and launched the club’s first official website, helping connect supporters at home and abroad at a time when the internet was still developing.

The IGSC was granted official supporters’ club status on 1st July 1996 and has remained closely involved with the club ever since. Since 2001, it has also held representation on the Board of Directors.

Over the past three decades, the group has contributed more than £250,000 to Glentoran Football Club, alongside a significant amount of voluntary work.

That support has included match and kit sponsorships, donations, and funding improvements to areas such as the Superstore, hospitality spaces and office facilities.

The IGSC has also played a key role in the running of the Superstore and, until recently, the Milkbar.

Colin Jess, Chairman of Glentoran said: “I would like to extend sincere congratulations to the Internet Glentoran Supporters Club as it marks its 30th anniversary.

“Over that time, the group has provided consistent financial support and strong backing on matchdays, which we are very grateful for. Much of that work has been done quietly and without recognition.

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank everyone involved with the IGSC and wish them continued success in the years ahead.”

Marcus Kane, Club Captain of Glentoran said: “It’s brilliant to see the IGSC reach 30 years and it says a lot about the people involved and their commitment to the club. As players, we’re aware of the work they do behind the scenes as well as the support they give on matchdays. It genuinely makes a difference.

“On a personal level, the members played a big role in my testimonial year, which meant a lot to me and my family. I also want to thank Ruth McCreery in particular, who has been a huge support to me since I came to the club and has become a close friend of the family.

“On behalf of the squad, I’d like to thank everyone involved with the IGSC for everything they continue to do for Glentoran.”