Ballinamallard United manager Whitey Anderson has confirmed that Craig Hill, James McGrath and Conor O'Grady have left the club.

Defender Hill cannot commit due to being in his final year at University in Scotland, goalkeeper McGrath has work commitments and O'Grady has been let go by the club with Anderson praising the trio for their contribution to Ballinamallard United.

Hill first pulled on a Ballinamallard jersey when he was seven years old but Anderson explains that he could not commit for the forthcoming campaign.

"I would like to thank Craig for his commitment to Ballinamallard over the last 18 months when he travelled in from Glasgow each weekend. He played a very significant part in our success and he wanted to be part of it considering that he has been a player at the club since he was seven years of age. His game at Windsor Park when he partnered Mark Stafford in a 3-1 win against Linfield was his stand out game.

"However it is his last year at university and he simply couldn't commit to playing this year. I have no doubt that had Craig been living locally that he would have developed into one of the top centre half's in the country. We wish him well in the future and who knows he may yet return." Anderson also felt that netminder McGrath played a significant role in helping the Mallards get into the top flight, his penalty save against Warrenpoint a key moment in clinch promotion the season before last.

"Due to work commitments James won't be returning to the club this season. He is someone who played such an integral part in the championship winning side which helped us get promoted to the Premiership. He performed magnificently and can be proud of his part in the history of not only Ballinamallard, but local football. Last season was a frustrating year for James and although he had to perform as understudy to Alvin Rouse he trained very hard without complaint throughout the year. His performance when we played Warrenpoint and he saved a penalty away from home was a pivotal moment in the winning of the IFA Championship. He also kept a clean sheet at Windsor Park at the end of last season when we once again beat Linfield 1-0. I would like to thank James for his efforts and wish him well in the future." And he stated that O'Grady was a great role model and the other players could learn from his approach.

"His professionalism both on and off the pitch was second to none and I only hope that the players in the squad will have learnt from his approach. Conor has had a very successful career in the League of Ireland and one could see why on numerous occasions last season, and it certainly would have been great to have seen him play in his earlier days. We wish him well in the future and he is someone who undoubtedly will make an impact in both coaching and management."