Matthew Tipton believes some previous coaching sessions with Paddy McNally helped convince the defender to sign for Portadown .
McNally has joined the Ports after parting company with Championship champions Larne at the end of last season.
The 24-year-old was offered a new deal at Inver Park but couldn't commit to the full-time demands of the club.
It was a blow for Larne and McNally, with the player having finished third in a fans' poll for their player of the year.
Larne's loss is Portadown's gain, however, and Tipton believes they have secured the services of an experienced defender ahead of the new season.
"I am delighted to get Paddy on board," Tipton said.
"I had been after him for a while, going back to when I was manager of Warrenpoint.
"I also played with Paddy during my time at Ballymena United, so I know him well."
It was during their time together at Ballymena that Tipton tried to advise the young defender.
"It was around the time Spike (Genn Ferguson) left and before Davy (Jeffrey) arrived. I was taking the coaching sessions during that interim period," Tipton said.
"Paddy would stay behind after training to work on things, and I would try and help him as much as possible.
"Just wee things like suggesting what he should be working on, and what things he was better at.
"I think Paddy remembers that and it maybe played a part in him signing for Portadown.
"He is a good lad, and despite only being 24 he will be one of the more experienced lads at the club.
"He is a solid addition to our squad so we are all delighted Paddy has signed."
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