ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 Rewards from Three

WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 Rewards from Three. Download the 3Plus App and dive into a world of rewards and offers.

Offers Get fit with 15% off at Elverys Intersport, enjoy a medium McDonald's meal for only €5. Or you and a friend could catch the latest blockbuster with our 2-for-€10 cinema seats.

Competitions How about a sound check with your favourite band, or tickets to a sold out match? 3Plus gives you a chance to win money- can’t-buy experiences with great competitions every month.

Music Get presale tickets 48 hours before general sale*. Be first through the doors with 3Access queues and get on the guest list at Bar Neon in 3Arena.

Sport Get closer to Irish Football with exclusive content and behind the scenes access. Win signed jerseys, match tickets and money-can’t-buy sporting experiences.

Download the 3Plus app today.

*Exclusions apply. Subject to availability. Data charges may apply to app download. Terms and conditions apply, see Three.ie.

Resize_PressAdV2.indd 1 08/03/2017 18:17 Table of Contents

Chairperson’s Message 4 CEO’s Message 5 Key Note Speakers 6 Women’s Football Department 7 Women’s Football Department Update 9 Education Workshops 10 Promotion and Marketing 13 Grassroots Programmes 15 Elite 19 International 23 Domestic 29 Administrator Update 31 Frequently asked questions 32 Calendar of events 33 Other FAI Programmes 34 Referees 34 Schools and Third Level 37 Summer Soccer Schools 41 Women’s Football Committee 42 East Women’s Regional Football Committee Update 43 Midlands Women’s Regional Football Committee Update 44 Mid-West Women’s Regional Football Committee Update 45 North East Women’s Regional Football Committee Update 46 North West Women’s Regional Football Committee Update 47 South East Women’s Regional Football Committee Update 49 South West Women’s Regional Football Committee Update 50 West Women’s Regional Football Committee Update 53 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND CHAIRPERSON’S MESSAGE

I am delighted to welcome repre- who attended get real benefit from sentatives of clubs and leagues to their presence here today. To that the first Annual Convention for those end, in addition to the prescribed involved in womens and schoolgirls business of the Convention we are football. delighted to have Rachel Pavlou from the FA here to share her The full integration of women’s experience in the keynote address. football into the structures of the FAI We’re also delighted to take the op- became a reality in mid-2016 with portunity to introduce Irish leagues the establishment of the FAI Wom- and clubs to the fantastic UEFA ens’ Football Committee and the #TogetherWePlayStrong Campaign Womens Regional Football Com- and we’d like to thank Noel Mooney mittees. The transition to the new for his attendance here today. structures has been an interesting process with the joining together of Finally, we’re delighted that John many people who had previously Delaney, CEO of the FAI joins us been involved in the Womens Foot- for the Convention. The integration ball Association of Ireland (WFAI) of womens’ football into the main- NIAMH O’DONOGHUE with others from many other areas stream structures of the FAI was a WFC CHAIRPERSON of the game including the FAIS, the project that was led from the outset WSCAI, and the WNL. by John and he has honoured all commitments made and more. Building a focus on the devel- The decision by the Board to ask opment of the game rather than the FAI AGM to bring forward the on competition alone has been a promised inclusion of the Chairman challenging journey. Considerable of the WFC on the Board of the FAI efforts have been made to facili- indicates the commitment of the tate the identification of priorities at Association to the development of regional level and to launch new the women’s game. initiatives to try and strengthen the game. The support provided by the I’d like to thank all my colleagues Womens Football Unit and the FAI on the WFC for all their work over Development Officers makes a real the course of the last year in em- difference to these new arrange- bedding the new structures and ments. You will see and hear today helping set a strategic direction for just what this means in each of the all involved in womens football. I’d regions. also like to thank the staff of the Womens Unit, Emma, Dave, and In arranging the first Annual Conven- Clare under the leadership of Sue tion, the Womens’ Football Com- for all their work over the course of mittee wanted to ensure that those the last year.

4 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 CEO’S MESSAGE

ciation in their support of women’s has been evolution too. Colin Bell’s football programmes and that blue appointment as the first full-time chip organisation has been a terrific head coach of the senior Women’s support to the Women’s National National Team shows that commit- League. The establishment of the ment and I wish Colin and his team league in 2011 has provided our the very best as they attempt to top level players with a platform to qualify for the FIFA Women’s World test themselves against their peers Cup in France in 2019. nationwide. Our underage international sides Shelbourne LFC proved once continue to make an impact in again this year that our national UEFA competition, with the WU17s club teams can compete at UEFA qualifying for the UEFA Finals earlier Women’s Champions League level this year with WNT Head Coach with an unbeaten campaign and the Colin Bell set to work with that age Continental Tyres Women’s National group going forward. JOHN DELANEY League continues to become more competitive. We’re planning the With Dave Connell also ensuring the FAI CEO introduction of an underage na- WU19 sides continue to compete at tional league for top female players the highest level and Sharon Boyle’s I am very pleased to welcome all of and this will also have a significant work in introducing talented young the delegates to the first annual FAI impact on bringing the best players players to the international stage at Women’s Football Convention. together more regularly, earlier in WU16 level, the standards are not The development of football for their careers. just being maintained at representa- female players has long been a tive level but continue to be raised. priority of the FAI Board. I have The restructure and growth of the always made it clear that as a father Gaynor Tournament, with Fota Women’s football is in a very strong of twins, a boy and a girl, my goal Island Resort on board as the title place at this moment, and with is that each would have the same sponsor, is further proof of the continued growth, increased inter- opportunities to play our game. evolution of elite football for our best est from the public and media, and Our commitment as an Association young female players with 45 teams through the steady improvements in to the growth of women’s football and over 1000 players taking part in the quality of the Women’s game, has been strong and while change Limerick this year. the future is very exciting for the does take time to be felt, there have Association and for the country in been many progressions across Our national competitions allow the general. football for females of all abilities best club teams at all levels from in this country. The establishment U14 up to adult senior, intermediate Our challenge is to ensure that the of the new governance structure and junior grades to test themselves determination to improve never with the creation of the Women’s against the other top sides in the wavers and that young Irish females Football Committee, working with country and we believe these com- know that this sport can offer them eight regional committees, has petitions will continue to grow. fabulous opportunities. I know that given women’s football in Ireland a the Women’s Football department, platform for growth, which the FAI is The Aviva Soccer Sisters pro- headed by Sue Ronan, is very fo- committed to supporting. gramme has been a tremendous cused on maintaining the progress success and again, a top tier made to date, across all aspects of The growth of women’s football sponsor has helped impact on the the game. is one of the key pillars of the FAI numbers of girls playing our game Strategic Plan which was published and being introduced to football in a Finally my thanks to all of our in 2016 and the appointment of the fun and safe environment. speakers at this convention and in chairperson of the Women’s Foot- particular a warm welcome to Noel ball Committee, Niamh O’Dono- We’ve also seen the numbers of Mooney from UEFA, who is driv- ghue, onto the FAI Board ensures females on the Sportsdirect.com ing UEFA’s Marketing Campaign that commitment to women’s FAI Summer Soccer Schools grow for Women’s Football, and Rachel football will continue. and that too is a very positive sign Pavlou from the FA, who will share of the health and interest in football her experiences in England and that Continental Tyres has been a amongst young girls. country’s successful growth and tremendous partner to the Asso- On the national team front there retention of women players.

5 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

KEY NOTE SPEAKERS

Noel Mooney Senior Manager National Associations Business Development UEFA Noel is responsible for sup- marketing and promotions porting all 55 member asso- Noel was also a goalkeeper ciations in growing the game with Limerick FC, Cork City in a strategic and systematic and Shamrock Rovers. manner through the dedicat- Noel achieved academic de- ed development programme grees from the Dublin Institute UEFA GROW. of Technology and the Irish Before joining UEFA in 2012, Management Institute and is a he held roles with the Football recent graduate of the Execu- NOEL MOONEY Association of Ireland - most tive Master in European Sport UEFA recently as head of league Governance.

Rachel Pavlou National Women’s Football Participation Manager The FA Rachel has over 25 years of She has been a key member sports development experi- in the implementation of the ence, particularly specialising FA Women’s Super League, in the last 19 years in the has managed the talent de- development of women’s velopment programme, leads football at The Football Asso- on the changes to mixed ciation. football and initiated and Rachel is currently the FA developed the Kick Off Your RACHEL PAVLOU National Women’s Football Career campaign. She insti- THE FA Participation Manager. Her gated the Lionesses Player main area of focus is to dou- Appearance Programme, ble participation. She is also Conti Festivals, Soccercise, a designated UEFA Expert in the FA Girls’ Youth Cup, the Women’s Football Develop- Premier League and English ment and a Trustee at Aston Football League Trust female Villa FC Foundation. participation programme and During her time at The FA, the SSE Wildcats FC. Rachel has secured over Rachel has played competi- £14.5m of external funding tively at many sports, particu- into both the participation and larly football and hockey, and talent programmes to devel- still plays league tennis for her op the game. This included club. She is a season ticket influencing sponsors Tesco, holder in the Holte End at Continental Tyres and SSE to Aston Villa FC and is even in invest in grassroots “girls only” their away scheme. football projects.

6 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 WOMEN’S FOOTBALL DEPARTMENT

Sue Ronan has a long distin- the Women’s National Team guished career in Women’s in 2010. During her time with Football, firstly as a national the WNT, she also led Team team player, then as a coach Ireland’s Women’s Football and now as an administrator. Team at three World Universi- She started full-time in the ty Games. Association in March 2006 Sue stepped down from her as National Coordinator for position with the WNT in 2016 Women’s Football. For the to become Head of Women’s previous 10 years, she was Football in the FAI, a newly part of the coaching staff in created position as part of the a voluntary capacity with our new governance structure of underage national squads, women’s football. Sue heads SUE RONAN HEAD OF WOMEN’S FOOTBALL first as Manager of the U16’s, up the women’s department then as Mick Cooke’s assis- who work closely with the tant with the U18’s. Women’s Football Committee Sue became Head Coach and Regional Committees to with the WU19’s in 2000, develop all elements of the a role she held for 10 years game, under the 5 pillars of before moving on to coach the Women’s Strategic Plan.

Emma has been involved as kit manager during that with developing Women’s period. and Schoolgirls football since In 2015, Emma became Na- 2004, through her local club tional Coordinator for Wom- and league in Cork, while also en’s Football and has been being heavily involved with heavily involved in the devel- third level football with the opment and implementation WSCAI committee. of our Women’s Strategic Emma began working with the Plan over the past number of FAI in May 2008 as a Wom- years. en’s Development Officer for Emma’s current role involves South Leinster. In 2011, she working with the WFC and moved to FAI headquarters as WRFC’s to roll out our Wom- EMMA MARTIN Women’s Programme Assis- en’s Strategic Plan while also NATIONAL CO-ORDINATOR tant. coordinating all grassroots WOMEN’S FOOTBALL From 2011-2015 she also programmes and events for joined the WNT staff, working increasing female participation.

7 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND WOMEN’S FOOTBALL DEPARTMENT

Dave Connell played for Rovers in August 1989 and Bohemians, Dundalk and in his three years at the club Shamrock Rovers F.C. won two consecutive Player amongst others during his 20 of the Year awards. He made year career in the League of a total of 126 appearanc- Ireland. He played for Bohe- es scoring 6 times for the mians in the famous 3-2 win Hoops. over Rangers in 1984. Dave started working for the Dave also captained Ireland at Football Association of Ire- schoolboys Under 15 level in land in 2006 and is currently 1974/75 playing and scoring the Head Coach of the U19 DAVID CONNELL twice against a Dutch side Republic of Ireland Women’s NATIONAL COORDINATOR which included Ruud Gullit, National Football Team and GIRLS EMERGING TALENT PROGRAMME and a Welsh side that boast- National Coordinator for Girls ed Ian Rush. Emerging Talent Programme. Dave signed for Shamrock

Clare Conlon is a retired the Women’s Soccer Women’s National League Colleges Association Player, playing with both of Ireland for a number of Wexford Youths and Raheny years. United during her career, Clare started working with the winning 2 League Titles, 2 FAI Football Association of Ireland Senior Cups, a League Cup in 2012 and has been in her and League Plate as well as current role since March 2015 3 Champions League Cam- She is currently the Adminis- paigns. trator for Women’s Football, a Clare has also been involved Child Welfare tutor for the As- CLARE CONLON in the Women’s game in a sociation as well as part time WOMEN’S FOOTBALL ADMINISTRATOR voluntary role when she was Kit Manager or the Women’s in the position of secretary of Senior National Team.

8 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 WOMEN’S FOOTBALL DEPARTMENT UPDATE

Women's Regional FAI Board FAI Committees Football Committees x 8

Tony Women's Fitzgerald East WRFC Football (President)

Donal North East Conway (Vice International WRFC The last twelve months have President) been an exciting time for John Delaney North West Underage Women’s Football in Ireland. (CEO) WRFC A priority of the Women’s Strategic Plan, launched in Michael Cody Domestic Mid-West 2015, was a change in our WRFC governance structure. That Legal and new structure involved the full Eddie Murray West WRFC integration of women’s foot- Corporate ball into the structures of the Eamon South West Finance FAI; the establishment of an Naughton WRFC FAI Women’s Football Com- mittee; and the establishment Paraic South East Development of 8 Regional Football Com- Treanor WRFC mittees. This structure allows us to get to the coalface Jim Midlands of what is required in every McConnell WRFC corner of the country in order to further develop the game in John Earley those areas. Our 8 regional committees are made up of stakeholders from Mick Hanley all strands of the game within those areas bringing a lot of Niamh O'Donoghue knowledge and experience to the table. They meet on a bi-monthly basis setting out New Governance Structure of Women’s Football priorities and targets under each of the five pillars of our strategic plan, supported by the Women’s Department. A huge amount of good work has already taken place in each of the regions, which you will see outlined in more detail further on in this booklet.

9 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

EDUCATION WORKSHOPS

Education is a key pillar in the The workshops proved to be a FIFA SEMINAR Women’s Strategic Plan and huge success, with our clubs as a result, we have held a and leagues making great Part of FIFA’s support for number of workshops over the strides in this area. women’s football is to send last year to help up-skill those one of their panel of experts to who work in every aspect of deliver on a specific topic, as women’s football - managers, UEFA GROW2020 WORKSHOP requested by a National Asso- coaches and administrators. On the 20th of August, twenty ciation. These experts have a one representatives from our long history and involvement in underage leagues and clubs the game, so are well placed VOLUNTEER WORKSHOPS around the country attended a to deliver on the required topic. Volunteers play a vital and workshop in Belfast, delivered pivotal role in any sport and we by UEFA’s Grow2020 Team, At the beginning of our new have many thousands of good led by Noel Mooney, a former governance structure and people involved in football all FAI staff member. The work- following discussions with around the country, doing shop focused on the following the members of our regional great work in their local com- topics, which are currently committees, it was agreed munities, however there is still problem areas in every sport: to provide them with some a huge shortage in this area. guidance and support as they With that in mind we delivered 1. Recruitment were about to embark on a a Club Development and Vol- 2. Retention new role. The following topics unteer Recruitment Workshop were suggested as areas in in each of our eight regions The workshop took the form which more knowledge would to look at innovative ways of of many break-out sessions be very beneficial: getting more people involved to discuss the above, which in the game at all levels within provided for great interaction • How to grow the game the clubs. and discussion amongst the locally participants. With domestic • How to market and com- These Workshops were deliv- and international experiences municate women’s football ered by Paul Martyn, Coach also shared, there were many locally & nationally Education National Tutor, and takeaways for the participants • How can local leagues and centred on the five pillars of as they look to increase and clubs attract sponsors club development; volunteer retain their players. • Time management and Ad- recruitment, club structures, ministration of committees fundraising, club plan and Following the workshop, the • Discuss status, potential vision, player and coach group got to experience at and future of women’s development. Through lively first hand a top level underage football discussions and group break- international match, the 2017 • Exchange information and outs, the participants were en- European Championships best practices couraged to take an in-depth WU19 Final between France look at their own club and look and Spain, with Spain eventu- FIFA’s expert, Ebru Koksal, at ways to improve on the five ally winning 3-2 in an enthrall- delivered a fantastic two day pillars within their club. ing game. workshop in FAI Headquarters

10 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

in October 2016 where all of the areas above were discussed and debated in great detail. Feedback received from participants following the workshop confirmed that it was a great benefit to them.

COACH EDUCATION COURSE FOR ANYBODY WORKING IN THE FEMALE GAME players and or coaches. COACH EDUCATION WORKSHOPS Our Coach Education De- There have also been a num- FOR EMERGING TALENT partment have developed ber of PDP1 and PDP2 Cours- COACHES a specific course for Any- es held around the country body Working Female Game specifically for females. While A key part of our educational (AWFG). This came about we welcome and want male process is to deliver work- following a request by the coaches involved in women’s shops for coaches working Cork Women’s and Schoolgirls football, the idea for these with our young elite players, League who were looking for ‘gender specific’ courses is to specifically those working innovative ways of attracting encourage more women to get on our Emerging Talent Pro- more coaches. A specialist involved. Statistics show there gramme. These coaches Educational Programme can is a real shortage of female are invited to observe train- be then devised from the coaches all around the world ing sessions relevant to elite workshop for male and female so it is a key focus for both players, including female coaches currently working, as FIFA and UEFA. One of the specific warm-ups, which are well as coaches targeted to main issues identified is a lack delivered by our Underage work in the female game. The of confidence in a male domi- International Coaches and our programme will see coaches nant environment. So with that Head of Fitness. The coaches complete the required contact in mind, we decided to provide also receive advice on other hours and qualification to be females at the beginning of important areas when dealing acknowledged as National D their coaching journey with an with elite athletes such as: Licence Holders. One of the environment where they could • Diet / Nutrition key aims of the programme is feel comfortable, thus encour- • Strength / Conditioning to cater for the involvement of aging them to go further up • Advice for Parents coaches from U14 and U16 the Coach Education ladder. • High Performance Culture upwards, this will allow for Ultimately when they do move Two such workshops took these players to begin their on to the higher end courses place in the past 12 months at coaching process early and which are male dominated, FAI Headquarters, with plans hopefully ensure to keep them they will feel more confident in to roll out another before the in the game longer either as that environment. end of the year.

11 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

ERASMUS PLUS ular target groups. The first in England. The objectives of was specifically for coaches the visit was to learn what our We have been able to ac- working with elite players, so counterparts in England do in cess some funding through we invited those working on the following areas in terms of the Erasmus Plus Programme both our Emerging Talent Pro- growing their clubs: which can be used for educa- gramme and with our National tional opportunities. League Clubs to the 2016 • Creating links within the WU19 European Finals in local community Slovakia. The group observed • Increasing participation both semi-final games and • Marketing, Promotion and the final, learning about styles Communications of play, match analysis and • Best Practice to attract current international trends for sponsors elite players. Each participant was required to devise a train- The group visited both Read- ing plan based on the match ing WFC and Arsenal WFC, observed. where they were met by staff who shared their knowledge In May of this year we invited on the topics above. Our del- delegates from the Women’s egates gained a lot of insight National League clubs who and knowledge from the visit, are responsible for the mar- taking away some vital learn- As a result of this funding, we keting side of the club, to join ings which they will implement have organised two separate a group who visited two clubs in their own clubs. overseas visits for two partic- in the Women’s Super League

12 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

PROMOTION AND MARKETING

tional League. fai.ie), plus a big presence on Twitter and Facebook with live At this year’s Fota Island goal updates and video clips Resort Gaynor Tournament, for selected matches. We we had a full-time presence also have match reporters at from our communications every game and the FAI Senior department at the event. They Cup Final forms part of a dou- produced a daily highlights ble-header which is televised package and provided daily live on RTE. social media coverage for the duration of the tournament. We are also continually work- Women’s ing with the clubs to help them We also have partnerships in improve their own media out- Football the print media including the put, as was evident with the Irish Daily Mail, Irish Daily Star Erasmus Trip to England. @FAIWomen and Evoke.ie, a women’s mag- azine with a particular interest The Women’s National Team in profiling females in sport. is the pinnacle of women’s @FAIWomen There has also been increased football in any country, so we coverage of women’s football try as much as possible to www.fai.ie/womens over the last few years on TV, promote the team and their with Aviva currently running fixtures. There is an exten- advertisements for the Soccer sive communications plan This is a very important pillar Sisters Programme on TV3 in place, with a press officer of the Strategic Plan and a lot while the Women’s Nation- ever present with the squad of strides have already taken al Teams home competitive for every fixture and training place in this area. fixtures have been covered live camp. An individual plan is on TV. devised around each fixture At domestic level we have with a huge presence on sponsors for most of our At local level, the women’s social media in the lead-up to programmes including Aviva department and the develop- the games. We particularly for our Soccer Sisters Pro- ment officers run promotional look to use creative behind- gramme, Fota Island Resort campaigns to advertise local the-scenes footage in order for the Gaynor Tournament, events which includes leaflet- to drive engagement. There Castleknock Country Golf and ing in local schools, clubs and is also full Communications Country Club for our Centres other local promotions. Department support for all our of Excellence and of course underage squads in the lead- Continental are a long time The Women’s National League up to games. sponsor of the Women’s Na- has a dedicated website (wnl.

13 For whatAdvantages matters to you

164152 Aviva Stadium Match programme Aug17_p.indd 1 18/08/2017 11:15 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

GRASSROOTS PROGRAMMES

SOCCER SISTERS PROGRAMME FAI Aviva Soccer Sisters has been one of the driving forces behind the increase in number of girls in grassroots football over the past number of years.

The Aviva Soccer Sisters Club Programme is an FAI Pro- gramme created under the “In- troduction to Football” banner, with the aim of increasing the number of girls playing football and utilising facilities countrywide. It is also designed to attract new volunteers into the game, i.e. parents and guard- disciplines and fundamental more clubs have developed ians who it is then hoped may rules of the game and are new teams as a result of being get involved in the game in also encouraged to forge new involved in the Aviva Soccer some capacity. Taking place friendships and develop inter- Sisters Programme. at venues countrywide girls personal skills. can learn to play football in a This year was yet another fun, friendly and safe environ- All girls should have an equal record breaking year with 124 ment. opportunity to get involved in clubs taking part in the Aviva football and the Aviva Soccer Soccer Sisters Easter camps, The children are introduced Sisters provides this opportuni- which saw over 3,400 girls to basic movement and foot- ty. As girls’ football continues participate. ball skills. They learn the to grow each year, more and In 2017, we’ve also continued the Aviva Soccer Sisters Nursery programme. As we build on the strong founda- tions we’ve developed over the past decade, it’s important we encourage girls to get involved from a younger age. This year the Soccer Sisters Nursery academy programme was predominantly focused in the North East region, working closely with a number of clubs to promote and develop the 5-8 year old age group

15 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

within their clubs. This will be • Inspire young girls to play followed by mini-blitzes, which football create fun events for them to • Create a positive experi- engage in. ence For more information on the • Break down prejudice Aviva Soccer Sisters against women’s football Programme contact • Turn women’s football into [email protected]. a sport for the masses in the long run FIFA LIVE YOUR GOALS • Make professional women’s football popular The FAI in conjunction with FIFA is running one of FIFA’s very successful campaigns to introduce more females to the game of football. ‘Live Your Goals’ was launched and promoted in 2011 as part of Meath, Limerick, Roscommon, the FIFA Women’s World Cup Leitrim, Kildare, Dublin, Kerry in Germany. and Kilkenny and a total of over 1,400 girls taking part. Live Your Goals (LYG) campaign objectives are to: For more information about the • Spark, foster and establish This is the sixth year we have FIFA Live Your Goals pro- excitement for women’s rolled out the LYG programme gramme in Ireland email football with festivals taking place in [email protected].

16 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

CARA MASCOT Women’s football have one more supporter at our Wom- en’s National Team games and grassroots programmes as our new mascot, Cara, was introduced to Tallaght Stadium in November 2016!

We ran a competition through social media and clubs, asking supporters to create a mascot for the Women’s National Team. After an incredible overwhelmed by the response Stadium to support our Girls amount of entries, we chose to the mascot competition and in Green, as well as across Cara as the winner. Cara the quality of the entries was many Grassroots programmes Griffin, 14, penned the entry excellent. “We’d like to thank throughout the year from Aviva below with a fantastic story everyone who entered the Soccer Sisters camps, to behind the new mascot Cara! competition but we had to have the Aviva Stadium to see the a winner. It was really difficult men’s team play. She also She wrote: “Cara the mascot, but for us, Cara had a fantastic appeared at many FIFA live like myself, started playing back story and it is one which your goals festivals and visited soccer at age 5 and joined her is relatable to a lot of young numerous clubs. local boys’ team where she girls in the country. If your club is running an event discovered her love for soccer for girl’s football, perhaps Cara and loved learning new skills. “Cara played at our FAI Soccer will be able to pay a visit. We “She then joined the girl’s team Camps as well so I think a lot cannot guarantee availability for in a village nearby and made of the children who attend our all events but we’ll do our best loads of new friends. Her matches will be able to relate to accommodate all requests. confidence grew and she built to Cara in a great way and Email [email protected] for more a great bond with her team- make her easily approachable. information. mates. “She looked forward to meeting her ‘Soccer Sisters’ at “It’s a great move forward to the FAI Soccer Camps every have a mascot, not just for the summer. Soccer has given Women’s National Team but Cara a sense of belonging, a also our ever expanding grass- chance to meet new friends, roots programme, and I’m sure a huge amount of skills, dis- the young children who attend cipline and a lovely chance to our matches will enjoy Cara’s travel to different places!” company.”

Women’s Football Co-ordinator Cara has made many appear- Emma Martin said: “We were ances especially to Tallaght

17 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

RECREATIONAL FOOTBALL SCHOOL CLUB LINK PROGRAMME In an ever changing world, This programme was intro- where there are greater de- duced in 2016 in an effort to mands on people’s time and assist clubs develop closer long working hours, some- links with their local schools. times the ability to commit to Coaching sessions are deliv- a club for weekly training or ered by an FAI coach which matches can be a challenge. is then followed by an ‘Open With this in mind we are Training Session’ in the club, looking to provide recreational whereby the girls from the options for female players to local school can come along get involved. Recreational and get involved in the local leagues, playing small side club. This programme has games, have been piloted in led to many clubs gaining new a number of areas in 2017. A participant from our girls teams. We are also catering for old- Football For All Programme er women through ‘Walking Football’. For more information on both of these programmes please email [email protected].

18 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

ELITE

players take part in what was LEAGUE ACADEMIES 2017 PARTICIPATING LEAGUES then a new programme on our The aim of the League Acad- player pathway. That number Metropolitan Girls League emies is to provide a local has steadily increased with Donegal Women’s and Girls League opportunity for the best players 22 leagues taking part in the Inishowen Schoolboy/Girls League at U12’s, 14’s & 16’s within programme in 2017, catering Wexford League a league to train together in a for approximately 1,100 girls. CWSSL Sligo Leitrim League structured environment, un- Mayo League der the guidance of licensed Galway League coaches who adhere to criteria Waterford League as laid down by the FAI. The Clare League League Academy is the first South Tipperary League step on the Elite Player Path- North Tipperary League Limerick Desmond League way for talented players, with Limerick County League the best from each Academy Mid-Western League being invited to attend one Kerry League of our 8 Regional Centres of Kilkenny League Excellence. NECSL League participation has Midlands League Longford League steadily grown over the last Kildare League few years. In 2010 we had Carlow League 18 leagues and approx. 700

FOTA ISLAND RESORT GAYNOR TOURNAMENT The annual Gaynor Tour- nament takes place in the University of Limerick and is considered to be the premier tournament for underage girl’s football in Ireland. It has evolved over the years from an inter-provincial tournament, to a tournament at 3 different age-groups. The 2017 event involved four days of action at the course of the tournament. of Ireland WU17 side at the the U14s & U16s age-groups, European Championships, en- while semi-finals and final In the U16 Gaynor Cup Final, sured her side lifted the trophy, games in the U12 age catego- Metropolitan Girls League presented to them by Republic ry also featuring at the event. claimed a 1-0 win over Galway of Ireland WNT Head Coach This was the first year we had and District League thanks Colin Bell. all three age-groups together to a first-half penalty from at the same time and it provid- Alannah McEvoy. McEvoy, In the U14 Final, Galway and ed for a feast of football over who starred for the Republic District League triumphed in

19 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

an all-Connacht affair against forward to play their semi-final of the tournament and the path Sligo Leitrim and District and final at the Gaynor Tourna- that it has led for many past League. In an enthralling final ment in University of Limerick. players. between two unbeaten sides, In a very closely fought final Orlaith Conlon scored the the Metropolitan Girls League Present Senior Internationals winning goal after great work edged out last year’s winners Stephanie Roche, Megan by Anna Fahey. Galway were Galway District League on Campbell, Denise O Sullivan presented with the trophy by penalties. and upcoming stars of the FAI CEO John Delaney as future Katie McCabe, Roma Galway reached the final in all This hugely popular compe- McLaughlin, Amanda McQuil- three age-groups (U12, U14 tition, has been influential in lan have all played at the Gay- and U16). the development of female nor Cup. This year we were footballers with many of the delighted to have Fota Island The U12s Gaynor Cup saw a current Republic of Ireland Resort as the main sponsor of record number of twenty one Women’s teams made up of the event. Having such a rep- leagues take part in this year’s past participants. utable partner as Fota involved competition. A total of 300 in women’s football, added young girls competed in four To play in the Gaynor Com- greatly to the success of the separate regional blitzes with petition is considered to be an Gaynor Tournament and the the winner of each blitz going honour, considering the history profile of the game in general.

20 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE CENTRES OF EXCELLENCE LOCATIONS: The aim of the Girls Centres of Excellence is to further raise Midlands – Willow Park Athlone the technical ability of all elite Cork/Waterford- Cappoquin players through the provision Donegal/Sligo – Drumkeen of further training and lifestyle Dublin South – Stepaside development at regional level, Dublin North – AUL Complex ultimately preparing them for Galway/ Mayo – Headford & the step up to international Castlebar football. Limerick – Pike Rovers Wexford – Bunclody The programme allows our best players the opportunity to train and play with each other, under the watchful eye of fully qualified FAI coaches, who provide them with a more challenging level of training than they receive at their clubs.

This year the programme ran for a 12 week period from July to September, with the coaches at each centre predominantly FAI Development Officers, following a coaching syllabus as set out by our High Performance Director. These Centres of Excellence provide the ideal environment for our international coaches to evalu- ate the best players in Ireland in a challenging environment.

21 Aine O’Gorman of Republic of Ireland in action against Gunnhildur Yrsa Jónsdóttir of Iceland during the Women’s International Friendly between Republic of Ireland and Iceland at Tallaght Stadium in Dublin. WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

INTERNATIONAL

WOMEN’S NATIONAL TEAM ber where Leanne Kiernan and nie Roche and Aine O’Gorman Stephanie Roche found the scoring. Next up was a 0-0 Sue Ronan was still in charge net in a 2-1 win. draw with Hungary then Bell’s of the team when the season side topped their group thanks began with 2 training games to a 1-0 win over Wales with in Wales. A youthful Irish side McCabe clinching the three drew 0-0 with the hosts be- points. In the fourth placed fore winning 2-1 in the second play-off against Korea DPR the game thanks to a Katie Mc- Irish succumbed to a 2-0 loss. Cabe double. In the FIFA Women’s World Unfortunately the 2017 Eu- Cup draw Bell’s Ireland have ropean Qualifying campaign been grouped with Nether- came to a disappointing end Former UEFA Women’s lands, Northern Ireland, Nor- in the final group game with a Champions League winning way and Slovakia with the 1-0 loss to Portugal in Tallaght coach Colin Bell was appoint- campaign set to start with a Stadium in September. After ed as Head Coach in Febru- trip away to Northern Ireland this game, Ronan opted to ary and led the team for the on Tuesday, September 19th. step down as Head Coach in first time in the annual Cyprus We wish Colin and the team order to put her entire fo- Cup, where Ireland finished well as they embark on their cus into her role as Head of 5th, the highest ever placing journey which hopefully will Women’s Football. Her final for the team. Bell began his lead to qualification for the game was against the Basque reign with a 2-0 win over the World Cup Finals in France, Country in Tallaght in Novem- Czech Republic with Stepha- 2019.

23 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

in the impressive victory in Skopje.

Kiernan then continued her excellent form, scoring both goals in a 2-0 victory over Wales. The Shelbourne Ladies sharpshooter made it six goals in two games in a victory that secured qualification to the Elite Round.

The Irish topped their group with three wins from three after a 2-0 win over Italy. Saoirse Noonan and Chloe Moloney scoring the goals. WU19 The Republic of Ireland wom- They faced Scotland, Fin- en’s U19 side began their land and Ukraine in their Elite season in September with a Round Qualifying Group which friendly game against Belgium, was held in Limerick in April. where they fell to a 2-1 defeat. Unfortunately, the group didn’t It was then on to the UEFA go according to plan, with WU19 Championship qualify- only one victory from the three ing games, where Ireland got games not enough to see the off to the perfect start against team qualify for the finals. An FYR Macedonia, recording an opening defeat to Scotland, emphatic 10-0 victory. Leanne was followed two days later Kiernan bagged four goals, with victory against Ukraine to with Niamh Prior and Alex keep the group alive. Kavanagh recording a brace Unfortunately, a defeat in the each. Jamie Finn and Eleanor final game against Finland saw Ryan-Doyle scored one each the Irish eliminated.

24 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

hard fought 2-1 victory over the hosts Serbia. Next up was Scotland, and although Ireland dominated the game, they could not break the deadlock and the game finished in a draw. The final group game was a 1-0 victory against Hungary with Heather Payne’s goal sealing qualification for the European Finals. The final tournament took place in the Czech Republic. Unfortunately for the Irish, they were on the wrong end of a 5-0 loss to England in their opening fixture. They then WU17 went down 1-0 to Norway The women’s U17’s began which unfortunately saw them their season last September exit in the group stages. with an away friendly in Helsin- Ireland went in to their last ki where they were defeated game against Netherlands by Finland’s U18 team. determined to get a result However Dave Bell’s side and showed real character to began their European Qual- end the campaign with a 0-0 ifying campaign with a 6-0 draw against the team who victory over the Faroe Islands. topped their group. All in all it Carla McManus grabbed a was a great achievement for second-half hat-trick to com- this young squad to reach the pliment an Alannah McEvoy finals along with 7 of the top brace and an Orla Casey goal. nations in Europe. The experience gained will stand them Bell’s side made it two wins in good stead in their future from two a couple of days later careers. against Belarus, before also We would like to take this defeating Iceland 4-1 in the opportunity to congratulate final group game to qualify for and thank Dave Bell for all his the Elite Phase. achievements during his time A 2-2 friendly draw against with the team and wish Colin Switzerland would precede Bell, who takes over on an the Elite Round which took interim basis, the best of luck place in March. Ireland began for the upcoming European that qualifying group with a Qualifiers.

25 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

WU16 The Republic of Ireland U16 Women’s team competed in the annual UEFA Development Tournament in Mayo in May of this year. These tournaments offer vital preparation for young players as they replicate the U17’s European Champion- ship Qualifying Rounds.

Sharon Boyle’s team started on a high, putting six goals past Northern Ireland in their opening fixture and keeping a Next up for the Girls in Green Ireland ended the UEFA De- clean sheet in the process. was Lithuania in Castlebar. velopment Tournament on the Boyle’s team impressed again, wrong end of a 4-3 penalty There were six different scor- scoring five and again conced- shoot-out loss against Den- ers on the day in Nadine Clare, ing none. Mia Dodd scored mark following a 1-1 draw. It Aoife Slattery, Louise Master- the opener, and Slattery, was a week of many positives son, Amy Boyle Carr, Lucia Whelan, a Sinead Donovan with twelve goals scored and Lobato and substitute Emily penalty and substitute Boyle just one conceded. Whelan. Carr finished the scoring.

26 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

WU15 FAI SCHOOLS from April 9th to 12th. The Irish drew 0-0 with Wales in The FAI Schools development the opening game but lost out squad welcomed Northern 3-1 on penalties for the bonus Ireland to the AUL Complex on point. March 2nd for their first competitive friendly of the season. The Republic of Ireland went on to defeat Scotland 4-3 in The Republic of Ireland put their next group game, which in a solid performance to win set up a third versus fourth 7-1. This was followed up a place play-off game with club fortnight later when the Irish representative side Shelbourne took on England in the annual Ladies FC. Lorraine Couni- John Read Cup. The Republic han’s side won 6-1 to ensure of Ireland continued winning a third-place finish. ways by defeating the visitors Wales went on to win the 2-1 to claim the title. tournament defeating Northern FAI Schools hosted the Bob Ireland 2-0 in the final to claim Docherty Cup this year and the honours for the first time the annual four-day event took since the inception of the Cup place in the AUL Complex back in 2002.

WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

DOMESTIC

CONTINENTAL TYRES WOMEN’S exceptional as they pulled the NATIONAL LEAGUE Wexford defence apart and scored almost at will. It was It was a year to remember for Kiernan, however, who really Shelbourne Ladies as they caught the eye as the teenag- completed the domestic dou- er completed a superb hat- ble, and they did so in style. trick. After merging with Raheny It was all Shelbourne in the United to form a new club it their revenge against Wexford Continental Tyres Women’s was always going to take time Youths WFC in November National League too. They for them to settle. But nobody 2016 as they romped to a 5-0 eventually won their first ever told the group of players as- triumph at Aviva Stadium. title by eight points, but their sembled that as they reached Under the guidance of Mark record of 43 goals scored the Continental Tyres FAI Leavy and Shaun Maher, and only 8 conceded said it Women’s Senior Cup Final in Shelbourne were unstoppable all about their dominance over 2015. and dazzled on Irish football’s the course of the season. biggest stage. UCD Waves pushed Shel- It wasn’t to be that time for Leanne Kiernan, Noelle Mur- bourne all the way, while the Red Pandas but they got ray and Gloria Douglas were Peamount United finished in

29 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

third place thanks to a youthful team made up of Republic of Ireland U19 and U17 stars. In fact, each of the clubs had international representation at some age group, which highlighted the quality across the League. Kilkenny United WFC and Cork City WFC made big improvements on their previous campaigns, while Galway WFC and Wexford will feel that they could have delivered more in the title race. Still, the strength of each club made the League as a whole, a lot stronger. In the FAI Women’s Intermedi- League Cup was a thriller with ate Shield Manulla FA ran out the Cork Women’s & School- Now in its seventh season, the 3-1 winners over Terenure and girls Soccer League winning Continental Tyres Women’s Shelbourne did pick up further 4-3 against the Metropolitan National League is going from silverware in the FAI Women’s Girls League in April. strength to strength each year. U16 Cup, with a 3-0 win over 2017 saw the league move to Enniskerry FC. For the first time in their history a calendar season, kicking off Cregmore/Claregalway were in March and running parallel The FAI Angela Hearst Inter crowned national champions to the SSE Airtricity League. League Cup was captured as they won the FAI Women’s This year’s league finale will by the Combined Counties in U14 Cup in Eamonn Deacy take place in October. a 3-0 victory over the Carlow Park. League in April. DOMESTIC COMPETITIONS Goals in the first half from Sao- Peamount United ran out irse Healy and Allannah Griffin As mentioned above, the FAI 6-2 winners over Cregmore put the hosts 2-0 up before Continental Tyres Women’s Claregalway to claim the FAI half time and Aoibheann Senior Cup saw Shelbourne Women’s U18 Cup at Eamonn Costello added a third. Kilm- Ladies produce a devastat- Deacy Park in March. Creg- ore battled back to provide a ing display to claim a 5-0 win more’s Sinead Donovan and thrilling finish, Keisha Hutton over Wexford Youths at Aviva Emma Connolly found the net, and Rugile Auskalnyte scoring Stadium. Shelbourne were while Peamount’s Aisling Spill- the goals. denied the cup double when ane, Doireann Fahey, Shauna their younger side were beaten Martin, Carla McManus, Niky In the FAI Women’s U12 2-1 by Boyne Rovers Ladies Plunkett and Louise Masterson National Blitz the Cup winners in the FAI Women’s Interme- also found the net. were Kilmore Celtic and the diate Cup Final at Whitehall in Shield winners were Westport September. The FAI Womens U18 Inter United.

30 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

ADMINISTRATOR UPDATE

AFFILIATES

Leagues Affiliated to the WFC Season Underage or Adult Carlow & District Football League Winter Adult Carlow Juvenile League Winter Underage Clare Schoolboys/Girls Soccer League Summer Underage Combined Counties Winter Adult Cork Women's & Schoolgirls' Soccer League Winter Underage Summer Adult Donegal Women's Soccer League Summer Both Dublin Women's Soccer League Summer Adult Drogheda Children’s Soccer League Winter Underage Galway & District Soccer League Winter Underage Summer Adult Inishowen League Summer Both Kerry Schoolboy/Girls League Winter Underage Kildare & District Football League Summer Adult Kildare & District Underage League Summer Underage Kilkenny & District Soccer League Winter Underage Limerick County & District Underage League Winter Underage Limerick Desmond Ladies Football League Winter Adult Limerick Desmond Schoolboy/Girls League Winter Underage Limerick Women's & Schoolgirls' Soccer League Summer Both Longford & District Schoolboy/Girls Soccer League Winter Underage Mayo Schoolboy/Girls & Youths Association Football League Summer Underage Mayo Women's League Summer Adult Metropolitan Girls League Winter Underage Mid-Western Girls League Summer Underage Midlands Schoolboys/Girls League Winter Underage North Eastern Counties Schoolboys/Girls League Winter Underage North Tipperary Schoolchildren's Football League Winter Underage Sligo Leitrim Underage Soccer League Winter Underage Tipperary & District Women's Soccer League Summer Adult Tipperary Schoolboys/Girls Southern & District League Winter Underage Waterford Women's District Soccer League Winter Underage Summer Adult West Cork League Winter Adult West Cork Schoolboy League Winter Underage Wexford Women’s Football League Winter Both Women's Soccer Colleges Association of Ireland Winter Adult

31 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

The WFC is a committee Can I girl playing in a girls league What is the WFC? of the FAI, tasked with governing also play in a boys league the women and girls game at the same time?

No Do the WFAI No. The WFAI dissolved not govern the game? in 2016 replaced by the FAI via the WFC s

8 regional committees have replaced the 4 traditional provincial If my league runs underage associations which previously existed What are the football for girls do I need under the remit of the WFAI. regional committees? to apply to run adult These committees are tasked football? with developing the game in line with the FAI Women’s Strategic Plan within Yes their region

What do I need to 1. Contact details (spreadsheet submit with my Do I have to notify provided by WFC) a liation fee? the WFC of our AGM date? 2. Copy of Rules

Yes

When is our Summer Season: 30th June; A liation due? Winter Season: 31st December

1. You want to take part in any competition not approved by the WFC 2. You want to travel outside the When do I need jurisdiction of the FAI to play When should I notify to apply to the WFC 3. You want to host a tournament the WFC of a change for permission? 4. You want to establish in committee? a new league As soon as possible

32 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

WHAT IS THE CALENDAR OF WHERE CAN I GET A COPY OF THE HOW IS THE CALENDAR USEFUL? EVENTS? CALENDAR? The Women’s Calendar of The terms of reference of the You can download the Wom- Events is a very useful docu- Women’s Football Committee en’s Annual Calendar of ment for Clubs and Leagues includes framing and moni- Events by using the below link. to have at their disposal as it is toring an annual calendar of It is an active document and is a great tool for assisting Clubs events. The Women’s Football updated on a regular basis, so and Leagues in the planning of Department created an easily please ensure to check the FAI their fixtures and events. accessible document to assist Women’s Calendar on a reg- The calendar aims to provide the WFC with their efforts to ular basis to ensure you have our affiliates with the most up monitor the annual calendar of the most up to date version. to date information on inter- events. national fixtures and training camps, FAI Schools fixtures and training camps, grassroots events, national competitions, coach education, meetings and workshops and so on so as to cause minimal disruption to Clubs and Leagues in the planning of their own calendar and to promote FAI events that may be of interest to those interested in the Women’s game.

33 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND OTHER FAI PROGRAMMES - REFEREES

REFEREES ment plan. geting recruitment at specific • Providing information on audiences such as the Third In response to the most recent the geographic location of Level Institutions. UEFA Audit, the National Ref- the referees as well as their For further information please eree’s Committee authorised grades, level they officiate contact a revamp of the manner in at, etc. [email protected] which the Association provides • Most importantly, identi- training for our female referees fying the training that the REFEREE FEATURE – MICHELLE operating at grassroots level. referees have received to O’NEILL This led to the development date and what their ongo- of a specific plan for training ing training needs are. Michelle started refereeing in and recruiting female referees. • Introducing ideas such as 2008 and was selected for Implementation of this plan mentoring, career planning the School of Excellence in commenced early in 2017. etc. 2009. She became a National The plan was also presented Having reviewed the informa- League Assistant referee in to UEFA at their most recent tion provided, paying partic- 2010. Referee Assistance Programme. ular attention to the identified Michelle also has a FIFA Wom- To date a census of all female training gaps, work has begun en’s Assistant Referees Badge to produce training materials since 2011 where she offici- specific to female referees. All ates at International level. She referees are obliged to attend has officiated on games at FAI 3 ‘Grassroots’ development Cup, EA Sports Cup, Premier modules per year; it is pro- and First Division League, posed that in future 2 out of Women’s National league and these 3 modules will have Cup. referees registered with the FAI specific content for our female Her consistency on the line has been completed. This was referees and will be delivered has seen O’Neill, 38, rapidly followed by a questionnaire to them alone. This is being progress on the international addressed to all of these and rolled out as part of the current scene. In 2015 she officiated a response level in excess of Grassroots programme. at the FIFA Women’s World 50% was achieved. While a lot The other aspect of impor- Cup in Canada and domesti- of this information would have tance is the recruitment of cally she continues to impress been easily available from the female referees. As well as our in high profile encounters. referees department these ongoing programme of begin- In March this year she worked actions had specific purposes ner’s courses, it is proposed with Polish referee Moni- such as: to run a specific beginners ka Mularczyk on the UEFA • Making stakeholders aware course for women only, some- Women’s Champions League that there is a specific time before the end of 2017. quarter-final between Lyon and plan for developing female In order for this to be success- Wolfsburg. referees. ful it is essential that it is pub- “I was at the preparation work- • Introducing the member licised to the widest possible shop in Netherlands last week of the National Referee’s audience using all channels and we were put through Committee responsible for available to the Association. our paces in terms of fitness implementing the develop- We also propose to look at tar- testing, analysis and overall

34 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

preparation. From there, once trait I have from working with fouls but being assistant is so you passed the fitness test so many different referees specialised and refereeing so you were basically heading to here.” specialised they are basically the Euros so I was pleased different career paths,” she when we got the confirmation While O’Neill still referees in the said. email when we got home,” Continental Tyres Women’s said O’Neill. National League her career “I want to be the highest level I path is firmly focused on being can be as an assistant and I’m “It’s a great personal achieve- an assistant at the highest happy with the career path I’m ment and I’m very proud to be level. on and I’m delighted to repre- the first Irish female to go to “I enjoy refereeing in the WNL sent Ireland as an assistant.” the women’s UEFA European and it helps with recognising As a swimming instructor by Finals. Damien MacGraith was at the men’s Euros last year so it’s great to do the same in the female game.” MacGraith worked with a Scottish team but O’Neill will not be restricted to just working with one particular team and she believes her adaptability through working with different teams of officials in the SSE Airtricity League stands to her. “You could be partnered with anybody really. A couple of people failed their fitness tests so won’t be going to Euros so there is a limited number of assistants given this opportunity. “For me it’s one of my strengths that in Ireland we change referees every week in the men’s league so your adaptability needs to be strong. You have to learn how the referee you are working with operates - their gestures, their body language. The communication is all in English anyway. I try and learn from the referee and what she needs from me. It’s a good

35 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

profession, O’Neill is natural- agility and speed in my fit- World Cup in 2015. To get to ly fit and her pace has been ness. We are also constantly a UEFA Finals is difficult so it’s a big asset in the rigorous in touch with FIFA with train- on a par with getting a World testing that assistants are put ing plans. We’re monitored Cup in my view. There’s a lot through. Her workload is very through our polar watch and of assistants out there so to be demanding and her dedication they’re seeing what we’re do- one of those selected is such to the game is impressive. ing week by week. an honour.” “When you go up to the senior “Kieran McKeown is our internationals in women’s national coach and Jean Paul football the pace is very fast. Baptiste is our coach from The players are getting more UEFA and they can access tactical and technical and our training times daily. We fitness levels going up so we train every day. have to be able to match that,” “I could have a men’s game she added. on the Friday then a WNL game on the Saturday but if “Even for us as officials the you prepare well and do active fitness levels of female officials recovery on the Sunday you are on a par with the men’s. should be ok.” “The sprint testing consists of a ten metre sprint, then back While O’Neill will still be work- sideways eight metres, back ing on domestic games, she sideways eight metres again will head into the tournament then another ten metres sprint looking to make a positive back to the start and you have impression for Irish officials. to be under 10.9 seconds to “From now until the tourna- pass. I did it 9.8 seconds so I ment we have a six weeks was one of fastest. training plan, it’ll be mapped “Then you have to do five out what we’ve to do and 30-metre runs in under five then when we get there will seconds. My average was 4.5 have another fitness test then seconds. That’s basically the a three-day workshop so we same as the men’s test. You know what the coordinators also have to do forty 75-metre expect from us in the games. runs in 17 seconds with 25 “There’ll be analysis and a metres walking in between lot of material available to us, and 20 seconds recovery. even a sports psychologists The male officials have to do should we need them. We’ll the same runs in 15 seconds be a team and train together so there’s only two seconds throughout the tournament difference with female officials. and it’ll be fairly full on for the “I was a striker when I played three weeks. so pace was always an asset “This appointment for myself and I’ve always worked on is up there with being at the

36 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

SCHOOLS AND THIRD LEVEL

PRIMARY SCHOOLS FUTSAL schools. Roma McLaughlin, received the booklet. 25,000 Amanda McQuillan and Jamie copies were distributed to The Primary Schools Futsal Finn were involved in promo- schools and SPAR shops na- programme caters for boys tional events in the lead up to tionwide, with the booklet free and girls in 3rd and 4th class the National Finals which took of charge. We also produced and blitzes are run across the place in the Aviva Stadium. the booklet in Irish as we are country in a non-competitive Overall the competition has 6 keen to produce all material environment where the em- sections, small, medium and we send to schools in English phasis is on participation and large competitions for boys and Irish to cater for the grow- fun. Last year a record number and for girls. ing number of Gaelscoileanna of 501 schools registered with and Gaelcholaiste 327 girl’s teams and 4,164 THE PLAYERS’ GUIDE TO HEALTHY female players taking part, EATING POST PRIMARY SCHOOLS FUTSAL this represented 42% of total This year we produced ‘The The Post Primary Schools participants as we continued Players’ Guide to Healthy Eat- Futsal programme is for 1st to strive for all schools to enter ing’ in conjunction with our Pri- year students only and aims an equal number of boys and mary Schools sponsor SPAR. to introduce Futsal to Post girls teams. The guide included healthy Primary Schools as well as meal options and nutritional encourage new students to SPAR FAI PRIMARY SCHOOL 5S advice and members of both get involved in the school’s the WNT and MNT lent their football teams. Last year a support to the programme by record number of 258 schools endorsing individual recipes. The guide was a huge success and helped profile the WNT players to the young students and their parents who

The Primary 5s has now become one of the biggest and most important grassroots programmes in the country. were registered with 216 2017 saw a record number of girl’s teams and 2,592 fe- entries with 1,495 schools in- male players taking part, this volved, this translated to 1,423 represented 44% of the total girl’s teams and a massive participants. The competition 11,384 female players getting runs from county to provincial the chance to enjoy the game to national level and this year’s and represent their school in National Finals took place a national competition. 40% in Waterford IT Arena, with of total participants were girls, Presentation School Kilkenny which once again shows the being crowned national cham- appetite for girls’ football in pions for the first time.

37 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

BANK OF IRELAND FAI SCHOOLS young girls. The 3 day com- POST PRIMARY SCHOOLS petition took place in the AUL NATIONAL CUPS Grounds last October with Leinster winning the title. 68 There were 14 National Cup of the best U15 players in competitions for Post Primary the country took part and the Schools in 2016/17, 7 girls event also doubles up as an and 7 boys’ competitions. international assessment for This number has grown to 16 the FAI Schools U15 Interna- in 2017/18 as the new season tional Team. A new initiative of the girls also progressed to was launched on August 29th of ambassadors and guest the U16 and U17 internation- with Leanne Kiernan, Roma speakers was introduced this al teams during the season. McLaughlin and Amanda Mc- year with WNT and WNL play- Schools football continues to Quillan involved as the female ers attending and presenting play a vital role in the interna- ambassadors. The competi- awards and speaking to the tional player pathway. tions run at U14, U15, U17 students after each game.

FAI SCHOOLS U15 THIRD LEVEL FOOTBALL - WSCAI INTERNATIONAL TEAM Women’s Third Level Foot- The FAI Schools U15 In- ball provides opportunities ternational Team was once for young players to contin- again managed by Lorraine ue in education, whilst also Counihan and this year the playing a high standard of FAI Schools hosted the annual football and there are signifi- Bob Docherty Cup where Ire- cant scholarship opportunities land were joined by England, available for elite players. This Wales, Scotland, Northern season saw IT Carlow retain Ireland and Shelbourne in a six their National Futsal title whilst team tournament. A number Maynooth University domi-

and U20 level and there are 2 competitions at each age group, one for small schools and one for large schools. This means that schools of all siz- es, from all parts of the country, have competitions relative to their school size.

FAI SCHOOLS INTERPROVINCIAL TOURNAMENT The FAI Schools Interprovincial Tournament is a key event in the elite player pathway for

38 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

nated the 11-a-side game by winning the Premier Division and the Intervarsities. The WSCAI is working closely with the CUFL in order to re-align the competitions for the season ahead and the 2017/18 season launch took take place on September 13th in Abbot- stown. There are still a small number of Third Level institutions who enter male teams but who do not enter female teams and this is a key target for this coming season. Taipei and Great Britain during the WU19 and the WNT. The WORLD UNIVERSITY GAMES the tournament. games allows our national coach more time to work with WNT Head Coach Colin Bell Significant developments for our young elite players in a led Team Ireland’s Women’s this year’s games included competitive environment. team in this year’s World the fact that for the first time We hope to see many of the University Games which took players did not have to fund- current WU17 and WU19 place in Chinese Taipei in Au- raise to be involved. Interna- players go onto Third Lev- gust. The team finished 10th tional football at Third Level el, which would make them overall and played against offers players the opportunity available for the 2019 games Mexico, Canada, Chinese to bridge the gap between in Naples.

39 Republic of Ireland manager Martin O’Neill with, from left, Emma Sherrard, Charlie Dunwoody and Brayden Adeboye at the 2017 launch of the SPORTSDIRECT.COM FAI Summer Soccer Schools. WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

SUMMER SOCCER SCHOOLS

SportsDirect.com FAI Summer Soccer School programme entered its 21st year in 2017. Over the years, the camps have grown to become the largest programme within the Grassroots Department. The camps aim to provide children between the ages of 6 and 14 the opportunity to attend a week-long football summer camp over the holiday period. Every year boys and girls of all abilities turn out to enjoy five days of fun and football.

In 2017 the FAI Summer 2016 the camps saw 3,423 • 2016 - Overall SSS Num- Soccer Schools saw its female female participants which rep- bers: 31,327 participation reach its high- resented a growth of 19% on • 2017 - Overall SSS Num- est numbers yet with 4,074 2015 (2,875). bers: 33,597 - another females participating on our • 2015 - Overall SSS Num- record breaking year for camps around the country. In bers: 26,650 Summer Soccer Schools

41 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

WOMEN’S FOOTBALL COMMITTEE

The Women’s Football Committee (WFC) is made up of 12 members. A Chairperson, Vice-Chairper- son, Women’s National League Representative, FAI Board Member and the Chairperson of each of our 8 Regional Committees. REGIONAL COMMITTEES

EAST WRFC CHAIRPERSON Ben O’Looney

MIDLANDS WRFC CHAIRPERSON Regina Casey

MID-WEST WRFC CHAIRPERSON Lorraine Counihan

CHAIRPERSON WOMEN’S NATIONAL LEAGUE NORTH EAST WRFC CHAIRPERSON Niamh O’Donoghue REPRESENTATIVE Frankie Watters Eamon Naughton (Chairperson of WNL Committee) NORTH WEST WRFC CHAIRPERSON Bríd McGinty

SOUTH EAST WRFC CHAIRPERSON Barry Dempsey (interim)

SOUTH WEST WRFC CHAIRPERSON Padraig Harnett

WEST WRFC CHAIRPERSON David Breen

VICE CHAIRPERSON FAI BOARD MEMBER Frances Smith Donal Conway (Vice President of FAI)

42 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

EAST WOMEN’S REGIONAL FOOTBALL COMMITTEE UPDATE

Name of Region East Women’s Regional Football Committee

Committee includes DWSL, MGL, FAIS, WSCAI, Wom- representatives from en’s National League

Number of meetings held since May 6 2016

Discussion/Decision items New Gaynor Cup format Introduction of U8’s & U9’s sections in the MGL Introduction of Futsal section in the DWSL to cater for players who wish EAST WRFC CHAIRPERSON to play during the winter season Ben O’Looney Priorities identified for 2017 Transition between schoolgirls and senior football Link between FAI Programs, schools, leagues and clubs Roll out of FAI.net Restructuring of Women’s football below WNL

Main Activities Discussion of the above

New initiatives held/implemented Establishing a Dublin South League Centre to cater for players playing their club football in South County Dublin & Wicklow. Approximately 90 players will participate in squads from U16 down to U11’s

New initiatives planned Roll out of Regional priorities, before new initiatives planned

43 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

MIDLANDS WOMEN’S REGIONAL FOOTBALL COMMITTEE UPDATE

Name of Region Midlands Women’s Regional Foot- ball Committee

Committee includes Kildare & District Football League representatives from Kildare & District Underage League Midland Schoolboy & Girl League Combined Counties Football League Schools/Colleges (Currently no rep)

Number of meetings held since May 6 2016

Discussion/Decision items Publicity MIDLANDS WRFC CHAIRPERSON Promotion Regina Casey National Cups Gaynor Cup Development League updates

Priorities identified for 2017 Promotion via schools Linking Schools with local clubs Publicity Education (Media)

Main Activities 4 fully affiliated Leagues promoting the womens and girls game via regular league competition

New initiatives held/implemented Safeguarding 1 Volunteer workshops Coaching Tournaments New initiatives planned Media workshops Creating links with schools / local clubs Liaising closely with Leagues

44 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

MID-WEST WOMEN’S REGIONAL FOOTBALL COMMITTEE UPDATE

Name of Region Mid-West Women’s Regional Foot- ball Committee

Committee includes The committee includes represen- representatives from tatives from Clare, North Tipperary, South Tipperary, Limerick County, Limerick Desmond, the LWSSL League and schools and college’s representatives. Number of meetings held since May 7 2016

MID-WEST WRFC CHAIRPERSON Discussion/Decision items The Mid West committee is focused Lorraine Counihan on developing all aspects of the Women’s game. The meetings are centred on the Player Development Plan, local and national competitions, development officer reports, priority areas, sharing of best practise and collaborative planning.

Priorities identified for 2017 Coach Education Development of the Senior Women’s game Best Practise

Main Activities The Mid West committee meet bi monthly. The main activities and focus of development are the three areas described above. A subcommittee has been estab- lished to focus on evolving coach education specific to the Elite Underage Women’s game. This will be the main priority going forward into 2018.

New initiatives held/implemented Sharing of best practise at Mid- West Women’s Regional Committee meetings Establishing coach education workshops to create a Mid-West Elite Coaching Network, which will provide sustained support for coaches working with Elite players.

New initiatives planned Continuation of the initiative sharing of Best Practise. Increase the number of coaches involved in the Mid-West Elite Coach- ing Network.

45 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

NORTH EAST WOMEN’S REGIONAL FOOTBALL COMMITTEE UPDATE

Name of Region North East Women’s Regional Foot- ball Committee

Committee includes North Eastern Counties School- representatives from boys/Girls League Drogheda Children’s Soccer League FAI Schools WSCAI Co-opted Members Number of meetings held since May 8 2016 NORTH EAST WRFC CHAIRPERSON Frankie Watters Discussion/Decision items The limitations in the level of development of Women’s and Girls football in the North East and how this issue can be addressed by the Committee. The lack of a Women’s Senior League’s in the North East, The role of the two professional clubs in the North East, i.e. Droghe- da United and Dundalk in developing the women’s game in the region. The role of Dundalk Institute of Technology and the standard of refereeing for girls’ soccer. The role of the Development Offi- cers in each county is central to all the proposals for current and future development.

Priorities identified for 2017 Run Academy/Nursery for 5 to 8-year-old girls and promote the game at schools at this age group. DKIT to recruit at least one female soccer scholar and to use this as the basis for the development of a women’s team based in DKIT and participating in the relevant WSCAI League Discussions are at an advanced stage with LMETB for the establishment of an FAI/ETB Football Development Local Training Initiative in the Louth/Meath area.

Main activities Regular meetings Liaising with the leagues in the North East who are involved in girls’ soccer Soccer Sister programme as the basis of establishing a presence in primary schools throughout the region

New initiatives held/implemented Need to carry out an ‘audit’ as to the level of participation, as regards women’s and girls’ football in the North East. The Committee appears to have a lack of profile in the Region as those who are involved with developing the game in the region are frequently unaware of the existence never mind the role of the committee.

46 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

New initiatives planned Facilitate the holding of a referee recruitment/training event in the North East Drogheda United FC & Dundalk FC to run workshop/presentation to help promote girls football Broaden the representation profile of the committee

NORTH WEST WOMEN’S REGIONAL FOOTBALL COMMITTEE UPDATE

Name of Region North West Women’s Regional Football Committee

Committee includes Donegal Women’s League, Inishow- representatives from en Women’s League, Sligo School- girls League, Ulster Schools

Number of meetings held since May 8 2016

Discussion/Decision items U12 Regional Tournament rotate between leagues Year 1 Donegal, NORTH WEST WRFC CHAIRPERSON Year 2 Inishowen, Year 3 Sligo Bríd McGinty League Centre Blitz Days – Held March in Sligo, April in Inishowen and Donegal in May

Players Moving to Northern Ireland to Play Senior Football

Combine Donegal and Inishowen Womens League for 1 year as pilot programme to increase competitive- ness of league and try retain players

3rd Level Football none in LYIT for 2016/2017: meet with LYIT and eager to participate in 2017/2018 girls college league

47 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

Priorities identified for 2017 GRASSROOTS: Soccer Sisters Easter 2017, with 10 camps In Donegal, 2 in Inishowen, 2 in Sligo and 1 in Leitrim FIFA Live your Goals in Leitrim with 318 girls taking part, gives great opportunity to organise girls structures in Leitrim

EDUCATION PDP 1 for Female Coaches, Volunteers Workshop

HIGH PERFORMANCE: Blitz Days for League Centre Teams

MARKETING: Update Social Media and Appoint Ambassadors for each league

Main Activities Club Link Programme - two ran in 2016 – one in Carndonagh, the other in Stranorlar. • In Carndonagh, 5 schools have now linked in with the local club who previously had no girls teams, since the programme, they now have U12’s & U14’s. • In Stranorlar, the link was between St. Mary’s NS, with Finn Valley getting more girls into their U18 & U10 teams. As a result, Finn Valley now have 5 x U8 teams & 3 x U10 teams who participate in a mini blitz run most weekend over the summer.

Sligo League Centre – Strength and Condition Player sessions every week from September to December together with Futsal sessions

Pilot Combined Adult League for 1 Year

Inishowen introduced Player ID Cards

New initiatives held/implemented Volunteers Workshop held in Letterkenny – 16 in attendance from clubs / leagues in the region

PDP1 in Inishowen with 34 in attendance

New initiatives planned Inishowen to introduce an U18 x 7 a side league starting September 2017

School Link Programmes for September 2017 in Ramelton and Ballyraine

Donegal and Inishowen League Centres will follow the Strength and Condi- tion and Futsal Programme which was implement previously by Sligo League Centre

48 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

SOUTH EAST WOMEN’S REGIONAL FOOTBALL COMMITTEE UPDATE

Name of Region South East Women’s Regional Foot- ball Committee

Committee includes 12 Members in total. representatives from • Wexford Women’s and Schoolgirls, • Waterford • Carlow & District Juveniles • Carlow & District League • Kilkenny & District League • WSCAI – Waterford IT • WNL – Wexford Youths • Three Co-opted members

OUTGOING SOUTH EAST Number of meetings held since May 6 WRFC CHAIRPERSON 2016 Selina Grant Discussion/Decision items Development of underage game with aim to attract new clubs into the Schoolgirls and Women’s game. Development and education of Coaches within the region for the benefit of all the Clubs within our region. Increase the number of female coaches and referees in the game. To help the weaker Counties to set up League structures and increase the number of Clubs participating at all age levels.

Priorities identified for 2017 Coach Education ACTING CHAIRPERSON Club development initiatives Barry Dempsey Increase participation in inter league competitions Volunteer education and participation

Main Activities FIFA Women’s Football Administration Workshop Soccer Sisters Club Programme Volunteer workshops PDP Education - Gaynor Cup support, ETP, and League training academies/ centres UEFA GROW Workshop – Belfast - Aug 20th 2017

New initiatives held/implemented Volunteer workshop PDP Workshop – Waterford – Aug 2017

New initiatives planned PDP Workshops – Wexford – TBC Additional Volunteer Workshops Expressed interest in Referee Training also Coach Education – Test Clubs to be identified and Pilot program to be rolled out

49 FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND

SOUTH WEST WOMEN’S REGIONAL FOOTBALL COMMITTEE UPDATE

Name of Region South West Women’s Regional Football Committee

Committee includes Cork City Women’s FC, Cork representatives from Women’s and Schoolgirls League, West Cork Women’s and Underage League, Kerry Schoolboys Girls League, FAI Development Officer’s (DO) from Cork and Kerry, co-opted member Teral Cullen.

Number of meetings held since May 6 2016 SOUTH WEST WRFC CHAIRPERSON Padraig Harnett Discussion/Decision items The main discussion items were: The fall of in numbers playing over 18. How the Leagues can tap into the numbers of girls taking part in the Spar 5’s and the Summer Camps. FAI and UEFA programmes that could possibly be accessed by the constituent Leagues. The re-introduction of ‘regional / cross- regional competitions’. Each League outlined various plans they had and these were discussed with the other Leagues giving the benefit of their experiences.

Priorities identified for 2017 COACH EDUCATION The Kerry Schoolboys Girls League has invited Niall O’Regan to do a coaches workshop for those working in the female and male game. The Regional Committee will work with West Cork to have one hosted there. WEST CORK LEAGUE The development of girls and women’s football in West Cork Discussions are on-going between the relevant FAI personal and the Com- mittee / League in the area to see how this will be addressed going forward. The possibility of a part-time DO specifically to cover West Cork and the area in Kerry from Kenmare to the West Cork border was suggested. been highlighted by a number of Leagues. ‘SATELLITE’ CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE A ‘satellite’ Centre of Excellence to capture the elite players of both South Kerry and West Cork. Currently these girls are invited to attend either the Cork or Limerick Cen- tre if they wish to be part of the programme and with distances of at least 1.5hours to both, it is not possible for most to attend. REGIONAL / CROSS REGIONAL COMPETITIONS The Committee feels this area needs to be looked at as the loss of the Mun- ster competitions has been highlighted by a number of Leagues.

50 WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

Main Activities The Committee has had some good discussions on how to develop the game in the region over the coming years. The New Rules of the Game were discussed and delegates brought these back to their Leagues. The Committee received presentations from the FAI regarding initiatives from UEFA etc., for the marketing of women’s football and on programmes focused on the women’s game. The DO’s gave updates of their work and workload.

New initiatives held/implemented A very successful Volunteer Workshop was run in the region, with 35 delegates attending. Feedback received was very positive. The Cork League held a Coaches Workshop specifically for those working in women’s football. It took place over two modules and approx. 80 were in attendance. These coaches have received their D Licence as a result of their participation. The Kerry Schoolboys / Girls League held a Workshop by Ruud Dokter for u11 to u14 coaches working in both the Girls and Boys game with 64 coaches in attendance.

New initiatives planned A PR /Media strategy will be held to see how we can improve the coverage of girls and women’s soccer in the region. Cork City Ladies PRO will be invited to the September meeting to see how the Region and the club can work together to promote the game. Ensuring all clubs have a Defibrillator in their clubhouse, with trained person- nel within the club able to operate same.

51 Megan Campbell of the Republic of Ireland takes a throw in during the 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup Qualifier Group 3 match between Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland at Mourneview Park in Lurgan, Co Armagh. WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

WEST WOMEN’S REGIONAL FOOTBALL COMMITTEE UPDATE

Name of Region West Women’s Regional Football Committee

Committee includes Galway Football Association, Long- representatives from ford Football league, mayo School- boys / Girls and Youth League, Mayo Women’s League, Mid-West- ern Girls League, Galway Women’s National League Club, WSCAI Rep - NUIG

Number of meetings held since May 7 WEST WRFC CHAIRPERSON 2016 David Breen Discussion/Decision items Introduction of Under 17 National League. FAI to become involved in football Community Games program. Player development Plan.

Priorities identified for 2017 Grassroots especially improving participation numbers. Increasing volunteer numbers participation. Tackle drop off from under 16 up- ward group. More female coaches. Enhance school / club link.

Main Activities Held successful volunteer workshop, Hosted Under 12 National blitz competition. Involvement in International Under 16 Competition.

New initiatives held/implemented Walking football for women in Mayo. New club / school links in Roscom- mon. UEFA grassroots program to be held in Galway in September

New initiatives planned Secondary regional competition where losing teams in National Cups will take part in trophy competition. Introduction of Inter League competition for preparation for Gaynor Tournaments

WFC ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017

FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION OF IRELAND CUMMAN PEILE NA hÉIREANN National Sports Campus, Abbotstown, Dublin 15 T: 01 899 9500 F: 01 899 9501 E: [email protected] [email protected] @FAIWomen @FAIWomen