FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE a welcome message draw

WELCOME to the pilot edition of our our footballing community have been The FAI Cup qualifying round draw has new FAI Grassroots eMag, launched affected by this virus, so many have been confirmed. to celebrate the return of at been isolated and left with a feeling of all levels of the game as our loneliness and vulnerability. We have a The qualifying round for the 2021 continues the journey back to normality. sport that brings communities together FAI Cup will contain six fixtures with INSIDE across the country, we have a game six teams receiving a bye to the first It goes without saying that the Return that brings the world together. Let’s round. ISSUE ONE to Training, the Return to Play and the embrace that and let’s look after each Defibrillators Return to Watch has been eagerly other. All matches are set to be played on Page 4 anticipated and warmly welcomed by the week ending Sunday, July 11 Football Returns everyone involved with Irish football. My thanks to all the volunteers at our with a winner to be decided on the Page 8 clubs in every corner of Ireland and day. Dates and kick-off times will be It is a testament to you all that we are my thanks also to our hard working FAI confirmed at a later date. Leinster Football League Page 12 back on the pitch in June 2021. For staff for their role in getting football some 16 months now you have abided back. Thanks also to Eamon Scott and Girls Football by Government guidelines, you have his team for putting this eMag together FAI Cup Page 18 lived by the FAI protocols and you have as we return to the pitch at the start of 2021 Qualifying Round Draw Third Level Football proven beyond doubt that our sport is our Centenary year. Page 24 safe in a COVID-19 environment. For Maynooth University Town v Bonagee United Referee Focus that dedication and commitment, I There are many reasons for celebration Kilnamanagh v Home Farm Page 28 thank you all on behalf of the Football ahead of us in our one hundredth year Fairview Rangers v Athenry FC LSL Senior Division Association of Ireland. but just getting all our players, young and Ringmahon Rangers v Crumlin United Page 32 old and from every background, back Oliver Bond Celtic v Killester Donnycarney UCFL Focus We are not back to normal yet but on the pitch is cause for celebration like St. Mochtas v Cockhill Celtic Page 40 we are getting there. Together with no other. our stakeholders and our partners Page 42 in the Government agencies, we will We will share those stories on these Byes continue to fight the good fight against pages with you in the coming months. Malahide United, Banger GGFC, St. Kevin’s Amateur Football League coronavirus, together and united. Boys, College Corinthians, Liffey Wanderers, Page 48 Fàilte ar ais agus Usher Celtic. Wicklow League Every time we play a game, every time fanacht slàn. Page 52 we hold a training session, every time Grassroots Round-up we host an FAI Summer Soccer School, Page 56 we are winning the battle against COVID-19. Given time, we will win the Gerry McAnaney, Editor: Eamon Scott war as well. President FAI Contributors: John Hudson, Niall Scully, Paul Dowling, Dermot Clarke, FAI Grassroots Dept In the meantime, I ask you again to Designer: John Regan @ Junior protect each other in this pandemic, to Creative Solutions watch out for each other. So many of FAIRVIEW RANGERS: the FAI Junior Cup Contact: [email protected] or [email protected] 2 holders will face Galway’s Athenry FC 3 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE

(L-R): FAI President Gerry McAnaney, Gillian Tobin, FOCUS: DEFIBRILLATORS Margaret Fox, Honorary President of College Corinthians and CEO of Irish Mainport Holdings, Dave Ronayne, and Denis Barry at the unveiling of new defibrillators at the gates of College Corinthians - for use by ERIKSEN EPISODE PUTS the local community - sponsored by Irish SPOTLIGHT ON NEED FOR Mainport Holdings. DEFIBRILLATORS ACCESS BY eamon scott

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DENMARK’S Christian Eriksen was said John O’Regan College Corinthians’ given emergency CPR on the pitch club chairman. after collapsing just before half-time in Saturday’s Euro 2020 game between “We did have an incident three years Denmark and Finland; team doctor ago where one of our players collapsed Morten Boesen said 29-year-old was in the dressing room and intervention “gone”, but swift intervention of Simon from a doctor on the opposition came Kjaer and medical staff saved his life. to his rescue, so we do have close hand experience of what can happen.” The incident, which received global exposure, highlighted the importance “When you see a top class player like of rapid access to defibrillators and Christian Eriksen collapse on live medical expertise. TV it brings home to you that it can happen to anyone anywhere and I really Eriksen has now sent out a message would encourage any club without a for the first time since the incident via defibrillator to consider installing one.” a tweet from the Danish FA’s account, which read: “Hello everyone. Big thanks College Corinthians conducted a couple for your sweet and amazing greetings of courses on the usage of the items at and messages from all around the their Castletreasure base in Douglas world. It means a lot to me and my and O’Regan also indicated that family. platforms like Youtube are excellent for quick refreshers on their usage. “I’m fine - under the circumstances. I still have to go through some examinations “We were lucky that we had excellent at the hospital, but I feel okay.” sponsorship to meet the costs but they are now essential equipment and well Here in Ireland, many FAI affiliated worth having the comfort of knowing clubs have installed defibrillators on they were readily available.” their premises and clubs like College Corinthians in have recently “The Irish Heart Foundation advised us installed additional units on site to leave the access door open and that including one at the club gates for use is the policy we have now adopted.” by the local community. Added O’Regan: “We were honoured to “We’ve had one on site for some time have FAI President Gerry McAnaney in and Irish Mainport Holdings generously attendance for the official opening of sponsored the additional ones. the community defibrillator at the club gates and everyone at the club would “We sent 500 flyers to the local also send their best wishes to Christian community alerting them as to where to Eriksen for a return to full health in the access one in case of an emergency,” coming weeks.”

6 7 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE feature: FOOTBALL’S RETURN FIELDS OF FUN THE PERFECT FOOTBALL

TONIC BY NIALL SCULLY THE church bells are beginning to chime face, or the mud on your again. It’s not so much that football’s boots. coming home……..more a case that football’s coming back. It’s good to see the grass being cut, pitches being Bands all over the country have been marked, and teams back out busy rehearsing. And soon enough, training. it will be the sound of the referee’s whistle……….what a beautiful noise. The other day, the tots were playing a practice match on the mini all- For many, the PlayStations have helped weather. In their bibs that came down to fill the long and lonely hours. But over their knees. Taking their first steps there’s no substitute for the rain in your in the game. 8 9 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE

The coaches were giving them their Trevor was long perfecting his craft time. And their wisdom. And doing it in without him even knowing it. He’d walk such a gentle way. to school kicking a tennis ball. And in kick-abouts with his Dad down in the The ball would arrive at feet. The child local park, his Dad had only one rule – would take a second, or two, to adjust two feet. and get it under control. Bobby Moore had the pass made before Once they had done that, came the soft he even received the ball. The “Look words: “Look up.” And look up they did. Up” advice of his childhood stuck like a penny stamp. At this age, it’s all about getting the basics right. And having fun trying to do In his early years, some people said he it. wouldn’t make the grade. They never told him he’d captain to the Graeme Souness was talking about World Cup. Geoff Twentyman, who was the Liverpool Chief Scout. Encouragement is a song that never grows old. And, like on those Upton Park Souness said that their first thing Saturdays, or those Sundays, Twentyman looked for in a player was humour is so often the currency of the how cleanly he struck the ball. terraces.

Connecting with the leather on the Football without the crowds just wasn’t laces. Just like the goal that saw the same. It’s like expecting U2 to be at Leicester win the Cup. A goal from the their best in an empty Croke Park. Scrapbook. James McDermott is a Lecturer in the One of the benefits of the Lockdown UCD School of Law. He is a season-ticket was the amount of old matches that holder for Fulham. At home at Craven were on the tele. Cottage, on the banks of The Thames. He captured the mood perfectly when West Ham featured quite a bit. At a he wrote. packed Upton Park. The crowd so close to the pitch that they could smell the “The visiting supporters would often player’s aftershave. chant: “You only sing when you’re rowing!” Upton Park, a theatre of football. Like the Gaiety or the Olympia, you were Thankfully, the young boys and girls, always guaranteed a show. and junior footballers, are now back tipping their toe in the water. Trevor Brooking striding across the stage. With a pass that could take the It’s great to be back! curry off the chips. 10 11 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE big match: beggsboro v dynamo TREBLE TOPS AS DYNAMO DELIVER LFL clubs’ ten-goal friendly to shake off cobwebs on 15 Acres BEGGSBORO AFC 1 DUBLIN DYNAMO 9

THREE Hat-tricks from three different The men from Cabra showed no players and a nine goal reply after rustiness whatsoever as they hit the going a goal down was the highlight of a front in impressive style after just six return to action on the fabled 15 Acres minutes of play. Such was the quality in the Phoenix Park when Beggsboro of the finish that a walker-by burst into AFC and Dublin Dynamo took to the applause as he headed in the direction field in a Leinster Football League Bank of the Magazine Fort on a perfect Holiday friendly. morning for a game of ball - or indeed a walk. The object of his appreciation was Remarkably both teams showed decent Beggsboro’s Dean Cunny’s bullet like levels of fitness after the long layoff header which flew past Roman Pryyma with Dynamo a few weeks ahead of in the Dynamo nets after a pinpoint their opponents who only began to tire right wing cross from Terry Downes. in the final stages of the entertaining encounter The fabled grassroots venue has seen 12 13 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE

Hat-trick Heroes

many a game over the years but this Victor Vinutsen had the blue shirted pragmatic. “We had some good was the first official match to be played Dynamo level in the 12th minute from passages of play but we needed to get a since the enforced lockdown and for We’re just a swerving 20 metre freekick and from competitive game into our legs. We ran referee Alex Saric and the players then on he shared the goals bounty with out of steam close to the finish but we’ll involved, it was their first outing in 15 happy to be back Vitaly Chernyshev and Andrei Bitautas be better for the outing and with a full months. and they each finished with a hat-trick squad to pick from, there will be better playing and 10 to their names. days ahead.” No wonder then that many regular goals certainly strollers also stopped to take in the Four-one up at the interval with more of Watching LFL President Tony O’Dowd ‘live’ action and included among them entertained a physical presence as the experience was a more than interested sideline was Pete Mahon who famously cut his to match it, they tacked on five second spectator. teeth with cup specialists St Francis those half goals to finish up convincing before taking the helm at St Pat’s twice, winners where skipper Artem Kilchsh “We’re just happy to get back playing Bohs and UCD among others. watching. was a commanding presence and and 10 goals certainly entertained showed an excellent and fine those watching,” said a smiling Tony. Pete would have been impressed with distribution throughout. “Dynamo are a good side and it showed the slick interplay that Dynamo brought goals with regular execution as Boro in the end but I expect Beggsboro to to their game and truth be told - once struggled to live with their pace and While the scoreline was a tad harsh improve significantly once they have a they found their rhythm they tacked on invention. on Boro, manager Chris Roche was full squad to pick from.”

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Beggsboro FC

Added O’Dowd: “Have to say that Alex BEGGSBORO FC: Chris McEvoy; Saric had an excellent game in the Jack Whelan, Ryan Somers, Darren middle. He was right up with play and Prendergast, Chris Shannon, Josh got all his decisions right. He’s a fine Bradshaw, Terry Downes, Nathan prospect and I believe he has the ability Marshall, Dean Cunny, Jordan Murry, to move up the refereeing ladder. We Andrew Hiatshwayo, Subs: Ben wouldn’t want to lose him but I can see Prendergast, Graham Murphy, Glenn him making real progress as a referee.” Smither., Dan Dura, Chris Roche.

Concluded Tony: “It’s been a long lay-off DUBLIN DYNAMO: Roman Pryyma; for everyone so today is a great day for Artem Kilchsh, Cedas Safkritkus, the league and hopefully it’s the start of Sergey Chernyshev, Marius Daknus, a new era for us. We’ve added greatly to Siarcu Lipinski, Igor Chernyshev, our numbers and as a league we look Carmos Mesas, Vitaly Chernyshev,Ion forward with genuine positivity for the Guadaves, Andrei Bitautas. Subs: season ahead, and, on behalf of the Bogdan Sulegornen, Romas Danulis, LFL, I’d like to wish all clubs the best of Denis Petukov, Victor Vlnutsen, luck on the return to action.” Referee: Alex Saric.

Dublin Dynamo

16 17 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE match report: girls football Merriman leads charge as Peamount lay down a marker in Willie Prout Cup PEAMOUNT UNITED 9 HOME FARM FC 1 Four-goal hero Nicola Merriman 18 19 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE

Home Farm FC keeper Ellie Meade makes a save

A FOUR-GOAL haul from flame haired Organised by Roberto Bonello, the midfield and Home Farm were at times Eve Maloney netted a second after Nicola Merriman helped fire Peamount competition attracts premier girls simply left chasing shadows. four minutes and Merriman got the United to a facile win in their Willie Prout teams and in previous years they have first of her four by the eight minute as Cup group encounter against Home attracted academy sides from around In mitigation, the blue and white hoops wave after wave of Peamount attack Farm at Glebe North’s homely Market the country, this year the call is to local have lost five of last year’s squad to produced scoreline rewards. Green on Saturday afternoon. clubs with Dundalk FC the furthest Shelbourne but the same could also be distance from the Balbriggan venue for said of Peamount who have promoted There was plenty of advice and The Greenogue Under 15 girls side hit all the matches. five up their ranks to the club’s under instruction coming in from the HF the front after just 18 seconds and were 17s. management and while Corrigan never troubled unduly by the Whitehall Barry Kinsella’s Peamount United were candidly admitted post match they side who battled bravely despite the three goals up by the eight minute and Grace Connors got the scoring going were well beaten by a better side, he evident gulf in class. even though Home Farm boss Mick from the tip off as Home Farm stood off believes that his side will be better Corrigan tried to tweak his line-up and challenging and the left wing approach for outing and will improve as recent The tournament is named after Glebe formation, Peamount were simply at a opened up for Connors to clip the ball to signings bed in. North’s former chairman who died three different level. Apart from Merriman, the corner of Ellie Meade’s net without years ago but whose stellar reputation sisters Freya and Erin Healy showed an a single Home Farm player touching the For Peamount Boss Barry Kinsella - is forever entwined in the club’s rich excellent range of passing and superb ball. brother of ex- senior history. vision as they pulled the strings in international Mark - it was a good 20 21 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE exercise with several pre match game Home Farm struggled to retain Peamount United targets satisfactorily achieved. possession or make any sustained pressure on their opponents defence. In fairness to Peamount, they went Merriman made it four in the 15th about their business in a thoroughly minute and had her hat-trick in the bag professional manner and maintained by minute 25. high standards from start to finish. In a rare incursion into Peamount The current 2006 born side have territory in the 38th minute Home been together three years and their Farm’s Grace Kelly saw her powerful understanding and movement saw header loop over the outstretched effort most of the play compressed in their of Peas keeper Niamh Richardson for opponents half. the Farm’s solitary strike.

Referee Paddy Dunne’s interval whistle bookended the haul four minutes from saw the Peas 5-1 in front and coasting time with a ninth. to a deserved success. Meade, in the Home Farm goal, did Farm’s Kelly did have an opportunity to take off a couple of excellent saves and double her own tally from the penalty credit her for at least keeping the goal spot just after the restart but still tally in a single digit. hobbling from the foul that led to the spot kick, her effort was easily saved. The competition continues this week with DLR Waves, Cherry Orchard, Sinead Flood tagged on goal six Bohemians and Dundalk FC involved on 54minutes, Anna Kelly netted but it’s going to take a good side to see the seventh in the 70th, Merriman off this impressive and well coached goaled again two minutes later with Peamount United side. Peamount’s eight and Grace Conors

Home Farm FC

22 23 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE feature: THIRD LEVEL FOOTBALL YELVERTON HOPEFUL OF SEEING SOME ACTION FOR THE STUDENTS BY JOHN HUDSON

LITTLE did Greg Yelverton The Covid-19 crisis that hit the country imagine when he was the following month and forced the re-appointed Head suspension of all football activity for Coach of the Irish men’s weeks completely wiped-out any plans Colleges and Universities Yelverton had put in place for a number international team for of fixtures during April and May of 2020. a third two-year term in February of last year that 16 Another blow came with the further months later, he would still be waiting lockdowns in October and after to prepare a squad for his first game. Christmas that finally forced the 24 25 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE cancellation of the entire Colleges Third Level international recipients were presented with their caps at a and Universities league and cup special function in advance of the 3-1 FAI Senior international friendly season proved an added frustration for With no victory against New Zealand in November 2019. Yelverton. football having However, the recent resumption of football has also brought some good been played news for the student’s boss with the confirmation of two welcome fixtures in any of the pencilled in for later in the summer. Third Level “We have been invited to play two competitions games against the Republic of Ireland under 21 and 19 selections toward the since March of end of August and early September next. last year I had “This is great news and should no chance to player holding a (2017) and Naples (2019) with limited give myself and the other two head UEFA Pro Licence who works as the success in both tournaments. coaches Jim Crawford (under 21’s) carry out our Football Facilitator at University College and Tom Mohan (under 19’s) the ideal Cork and was reappointed last year to However, FISU - the International opportunity to have a close look at lads usual thorough continue in charge of the all island third University Sport Federation – have who may be capable of playing at the level student international side for a announced that football would not be a levels required. player ID. further two year term following an open sport featuring in the next games due to competition and an interview process. be held in China later this year. “I’m really grateful to both Jim and Tom for giving me this chance to get our on what players may be available to us In 2015 Yelverton became the first head The past years in charge of the side has squads together for what should be two ahead of these two important fixtures. coach to this newly formed combined given Yelverton several highs and lows competitive fixtures.” Colleges and Universities international and one game in particular stands out “The plan is to name a squad for each side after the Colleges FAI and the Irish for him. Yelverton will have to start the whole game and only include players who will Universities Football Union had agreed process of naming his two squads from be continuing their studies in various to field one side in international and “I think our first victory over the really scratch as the cancellation of the entire colleges and universities in the new representative fixtures having prior to strong and talented France side at 2020-21 Colleges and Universities academic year. this operated on a separate basis. Longford in June 2018 was a real season without a ball having been highlight. kicked meant he had no opportunity to “As most of the possible candidates This was a major step for the assess potential players. will be players who at that time will be development of third level football as “After suffering home and away defeats involved with teams in the SSE Airtricity it led to the FAI awarding international to them in our two previous meetings “With no football having been played League or at the top level of the either caps and also introducing a Colleges to register a 2-1 win with goals from in any of the Third Level competitions Leinster or Munster Senior Leagues, and Universities International player of and Darragh Gibbons since March of last year I had no chance they will be in season so fitness levels the year annual award. was a huge boost for us ahead of to carry out our usual thorough player will hardly be an issue.” travelling to Taipei for the World ID. But myself and my assistant coach Yelverton also took charge of the Ireland University Games.” Tommy Griffin have been busy checking Yelverton is a Cork native and a former side at World University Games in Taipei 26 27 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE feature: REFEREES PASSING OF REFEREEING ROYALTY - DEATH OF JOHN CARPENTER IRISH SOCCER Referees Society Carpenter. John was the first Irish President Willie Long and former League Official to referee UEFA Cup of Ireland referee Charlie O’Leary have Final and left a legacy when led the tributes to colleague John he retired.” Carpenter who has passed away at the age of 85. Thanks to his personality, patience, perseverance Carpenter, who lived in Donnycarney and understanding as and Clontarf, is hailed as Ireland’s well as his generous greatest referee and had the honour giving of his devoted of taking charge of the first leg of the time, he will always be 1982 UEFA Cup final between IFK remembered as a true Gothenburg and Hamburg in the Ullevi pioneer in Irish Football Stadium in front of 42,500 spectators. and one of the greats of Irish Refereeing. A legend Cork native Long, himself a former of a referee when he walked international referee commented: “The into a room people took Irish soccer community was saddened notice.” to hear of the death of the much loved and respected former FIFA referee John Added President Long: “John 28 29 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE elevated the standing of the game in so John Carpenter helped put Irish refereeing on the map Top - bottom: Charlie O’Leary, John many ways. It’s a true story that when in Europe at a time when we had little Carpenter, Willie Long UEFA and FIFA were appointing him that or no representation and we’ve got to the telex to of be grateful for blazing a trail for others Ireland often just read John Carpenter to follow,” said O’Leary. +3. That’s how highly he was thought of.” Carpenter is the only official to ever make the shortlist for Irish Charlie O’Leary’s first introduction to Personality of the Year — which was in Carpenter, who after a broken leg with 1969, when he lost out to Mick Leech. St Pat’s switched to refereeing, was The Larkhill man was in the middle for actually a visit to Olhausen’s Butchers many big games and could include Pele, where Carpenter was employed. Carlos Alberto and George Best among some of the game’s stellar greats he “A lad dressed in white came from officiated over. behind the counter and he introduced himself to me and told me he was with He called games as he saw it, no matter the Athletic Union League but was the pressure he came under. anxious to move up the ranks.” recalled Charlie of his first encounter with John In 1973, he awarded a penalty to Carpenter. “He had refereed an early morning kick- Bayern Munich in the cauldron at CSKA off in and then came down to Sofia in the European Cup quarter-final “At that time we had no referees society Tolka for a 3.30pm kick-off along with second leg. Recalled John Carpenter in and only two inspectors. In 1950 when I Billy Nolan for that Dundalk game and later years: “We were in the car park first started there were no inspectors at that was in 1966 I believe.” afterwards and Franz Beckenbauer got all but after that Mr Dwyer and Mr Finn off the bus and gave us some tankards came on the scene to cover the whole Carpenter would go on to officiate at and said you’re very brave men to award of Ireland.” many high profile matches but he had a penalty here. I had to — Uli Hoeness a reputation of coming across as being was whipped down by the keeper.” Charlie advised a little understanding somewhat arrogant and that impacted and patience to Carpenter as he was on his relationship with authorities at Charlie remains grateful to John or JC as only refereeing two months at the time. home although he was highly thought he called him for the ensuring friendship of at UEFA and FIFA level. going back to the early 1960s. “He was “He was clearly ambitious and lo and a loyal comrade and at times he was behold a couple of months later he Charlie O’Leary, later to go on to be Jack harshly treated but above all he was a turned up as a linesman for me in a Charlton’s kitman during a Golden Era brilliant referee,” said Charlie. Drums versus Dundalk match in Tolka for Irish football, however, was fulsome Park. I was due to have Pip Meighan in his praise for John’s ability as a John passed suddenly but peacefully and Billy O’Neill as linesmen - both FIFA match official. at home on May 30th 2021. Very sadly referees - but they were off on European missed by his children, grandchildren, duty in Finland. Both of the replacement “We were aware that John didn’t always sister, nieces, nephews, extended lads did well and a couple of weeks get on with officialdom but you cannot family, friends and neighbours. later John was promoted to the League take away from his ability as a referee. of Ireland panel on a permanent basis’. He was excellent, really top class. He May he Rest in Peace 30 31 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE focus: lsl senior division STELLAR ST MOCHTA’S TO LEAD ASSAULT ON MALAHIDE’S CROWN BY eamon scott

LEINSTER SENIOR LEAGUE Champions especially having lost the services of Malahide United returned to action at talisman skipper Darren Craven to SSE Gannon Park with a high tempo friendly Airtricity league side Bray Wanderers. encounter with fellow senior division visitors Liffey Wanderers. Action in the league is set to commence on the weekend of Sunday July 4 Ger Coughlan’s sides last outing on the and the energies of all clubs are now same pitch was nine months ago when focussed on the long awaited return to Malahide United claimed a first ever action. league pennant after a swashbuckling charge to a deserved title success. The grapevine talks of St Mochta’s undertaking some serious recruitment Simply said, they were the best team in recent times and in many observers in the league bar none. Repeating that eyes Brian McCarthy’s side will start challenge is now what lies in store as as strong favourites to bring the title the league re-emerges from lockdown back to Porterstown Road although a and Coughlan is the first to appreciate 3-2 midweek defeat at the hands of the enormity of the challenge ahead - Kilbarrack United will have raised an

32 33 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE Malahide United LSL SENIOR DIVISION 2021

eyebrow or two. Zambra at Wayside are bringing new ideas and new energy to the strongest Rumour of Cherry Orchard’s demise grassroots league in the country and would appear to be exaggerated and it adds to the levels of expectancy and although they might be facilitated with a excitement . delayed start, the good news is that the Cherries will take their place as planned Likewise, Bluebell United are celebrating and we wish everyone at Elmdale the 75 years and have appointed a strong best of luck. With the great pedigree management team in Shane “Mario” enthusiasm of the experienced James are in as manager and assistant and the club has, the hope is that the recent Dolan with a coaching team of Shaun Lee in at the helm, expect the Pearse are familiar with the Senior Division roadbump will soon be disappearing in Maher and Brian O’Shea. All bring Park side to be a difficult nut to crack territory and stability and a solid their rear view mirror. a wealth of experience and the LSL as they set-out on the post Martin showing appears to be well within their powerhouse will be a darkhorse as they Loughran era. capabilities. Clubs that emerge from ‘Lockdown’ look to bounce back into the title mix. unscathed will stand a stronger chance Wayside without Pete Lennon is like fish Killester Donnycarney will be ruing of being at the business end of the Likewise Maynooth have appointed without chips but the Kiltiernan side their Intermediate Cup final defeat to league and it’s a season where the likes Shane Harte, Kieran Kilduff and Gavin showed excellent end of season form St Mochta’s but the Haddon Park side of celebrated managers such as Martin Kinsella and will look to improve on their to suggest that this season they intend under Gary Howlett are always capable Loughran, Peter Lennon and John fourth place finish last season which is to look upwards rather than over their of big results and perhaps consistency Young now take up a spectating role. not beyond the realms of possibility. shoulder. will be their biggest challenge this Now names like Heavey, Coughlan, Crumlin United have lost a couple season. McCarthy, James Lee at Crumlin, Ross of players but with the passion and Ross Zambra and Kenny Simpson

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The Senior Division is the LSL’s jewel in Liffey Wanderers the crown and divisional administrator Roger Mahon always runs a first class Tonight was show as the season builds to a climax hopefully in May 2022. about getting

The new boys on the block include out and playing Sacred Heart, Home Farm and Kilnamanagh and after excellent a bit because season’s to gain a seat at the top table, that trio will look to bed in and we haven’t done show they are more than capable of anything as a competing at the highest level. They all played some sublime football in a team in nine notoriously competitive league to earn that elevated ticket and expect them to months. There play their part in the weeks and months ahead. were no real

With a first title under his belt, instructions, our game because if we weren’t, Liffey exercise and look you wouldn’t want to Malahide’s Ger Coughlan appreciates could give you a hammering. It was a get cocky either,” said Coughlan post that his side are now in the collective rather go out rough way to come back into preseason match. cross hairs of all their rivals but he is but it was also a perfect friendly in that confident that the north coast Fingal and have a bit respect,” said Coughlan following the Halftime substitute Levi Boardman side have what it takes to be right in the concession of a late equaliser to the cracked a ball off the base of the mix once again. of fun and enjoy men from Pearse Street which looked a Wanderers post five minute after the yourselves. tad offside to many in the ground. restart but the ball was cleared. To “Tonight was about getting out and their credit Liffey worked hard and their playing a bit because we haven’t done Malahide’s Cillian Thompson had given industry was rewarded with a late, late anything as a team in nine months. the home side a merited advantage on equaliser. There were no real instructions, rather On the challenge of retaining the league the half hour after excellent work by Karl go out and have a bit of fun and enjoy title Coughlan pulled no punches. “If we Moody down the right flank. His deep One area Coughlan wants to address yourselves.” did what we did last season and stand cross found Ciaran McGahan and his is their unwanted reputation as slow still we’re looking at mid table. We had angled volley was parried by Lee Doyle starters to league campaigns. “We’re “But playing someone like Liffey who we a few players out through injury last in the Liffey goal only for Thompson to notoriously slow to get going and even are going to meet in the league helps season and we’ve only added one or ghost in and nod across the line from coming back after lockdown last season bed the players in, so it was perfect two to the mix, but we are now looking close in. The league champions had the we lost to Edenderry Town and drew our and we are all looking forward to the to change our style a little and also add ball in the net for a second time but had next, so that’s something we’re looking season ahead. We appreciate clubs a few extra bits too as well as using the the goal somehow chalked off before to put right.” will be gunning for us but that simply ball better.” the halftime whistle. goes with the territory of being league “I was out looking at St Mochtas the champions,” he reflected. “We were good this evening particularly “I think if we had linesmen it would other day and they are fairly star in the first half and we had to be on have been given, but look, it was a good studded with all the celebrities they are

36 37 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE

Ger Coughlan Declan Heavey

bringing in so we will really have to be another four friendlies coming up our set pieces and our patterns of play.” accordingly straight away,” explained at it, but it’s a talented league when before the kick-off so we were probably Mahon. you look at the teams in it and we are running on a little bit of adrenalin “I’m really excited. A lot of my family live looking forward to playing our part in it,” tonight but by the time kick-off comes down in the area and we always get a “I can’t wait for the action to start,” said concluded a very trim looking Coughlan around we’ll be far more organised.” great crowd and if I can get the team Roger. “It’s been a long time coming who recently cycled 1000 kilometres playing well with good energy levels around and like all the clubs, I’m for the charity As I Am. “We had good patience because I think we can look forward to a good really looking forward to the return to they had a lot of the ball they are well season.” competitive action.” For Liffey Wanderers boss Declan organised and are a very good team Heavey it’s a bit of a homecoming and I really haven’t had a chance to “It’s an honour to manage a club close Regardless, the Leinster Senior League, as he hails from Pearse House and put my stamp on things. I didn’t go into to my heart but I don’t think there’s founded in 1896 and chaired by Dave he’s honoured to take over from the tactics because we’re trying to keep it a bad team in the league this year. Moran, always put on a first class legendary John Young following his stint simple and look at a few fellows. Looking at the make it, I’m pretty sure show and despite the enforced Covid with Maynooth Town. it’s going to be a great league to play in lockdown, expect the thrills and spills “We’ve trained and got our fitness and this season,” concluded Heavey. of the 2021/2022 season to be as “For us coming to the home of the sharpness up, our recruitment has been competitive as anything that has gone league champions was a difficult game good and there’s a good basis here Nine of the clubs will be involved in before. to open up with, but we were able to already, so there’s a lot of potential in today’s FAI Preliminary draw and for have a look after 20-odd players tonight the side to go well this season.,” added divisional secretary Roger Mahon it is Best of luck to everyone involved in your - some whom I’ve brought in and some Heavey. posing a bit of a hold up. respective leagues and cup campaigns who are the heartbeat of Liffey.” as we start afresh after the most “We’ve no real superstar in the team “Clubs want to know their fixtures but unprecedented hiatus anyone could “I’m really excited about the season but we have competition for places and with the Preliminary and First round have envisaged. ahead,” admitted Heavey. “We’ve had a good group of honest players who FAI Senior Cup draws imminent, I’m three weeks training and we have work hard and we just need to work on waiting for the draw and will schedule It’s good to be back! 38 39 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE feature: UCFL UCFL BOUNCE BACK STRONGER THAN EVER! COMMUNICATE, Co-operate, Enjoy. the roll-on/roll-off system substitute is The competition runs from Wednesday utilised to maximise the potential game June 9th to Wednesday July 28th. The That’s the slogan the United Churches time of every player. For this to happen, four “finals” will be held on Saturday Football League has adopted from their every team player must be listed on the 7th preseason Champions League format match card and all listed players will be competition which kicked off last deemed to have played in the match. August, hopefully, in VEC Terenure, Wednesday. between the two section winners in “This is about getting players back on each group. Remarkably, the league has emerged the field of play and we’re delighted with bigger, stronger and more committed the response we’d had to date,” said With close to 60 teams entered, the their refereeing fraternity who have than they were pre-Covid and the strong UCFL Fixtures Secretary Noel Fitzroy. league is very pleased with how clubs announced their retirement from the entry is a clear indication of the appetite have eagerly embraced the rules and game after many years of dedicated for a return to action within the UCFL. Added Noel: “This pre-season friendly spirit of the game as they return to service. tournament is designed to allow contact sport. With free entry and token vouchers participating teams the opportunity Included amongst them is legendary for the winning teams the take up was to gradually return to regular match “The clubs deserve a lot of credit after referee observer Bobby Lynch (93) eagerly embraced by the vast majority fixtures before the 2021-22 season what they have gone through,” said along with referees Graham Caswell, Bill of clubs within the league . commences in August.” Fitzroy. “They have been very diligent Gannon and Paddy Dunne. Appropriate and have applied all the necessary recognition of their excellent service will Once valid public liability insurance In the event of a draw at the end of protocols with regard to return to play. happen in due course when conditions was in place, the tournament is open normal time, penalty kicks determine With a big increase in our numerical permit. to all constituent members and each the “winner”. Each tied team in a drawn strength, I think we can look forward to team must have a designated Covid game will get one point in its group and a really competitive showing from the Graham Caswell is taking a place on compliance officer who has to attend the winner of the penalty shoot-out will clubs in the preseason tournament but the UCFL Executive Committee from each match. gain an extra point. Goal difference is also the league campaign itself.” September. The league also recently not applied in the UCFL. welcomed Ian Webb from Glasnaion To advance the return to play philosophy, The league have thanked some of F.C. to the UCFL Executive Committee. 40 41 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE feature: AMPUTEE FOOTBALL Domestic and international programmes signal a return to action for

Amputees BY EAMON SCOTT 42 43 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE

THE REPUBLIC of Ireland Amputees have the set-up,” explained Christy. returned to training with the aspirations Added Christy: “The camps in Cahir it was great just of competing in the European were excellent and it was great just to Championships in September. get back onto the field while the lads to get back onto were delighted to meet up again and The FAI squad are currently ranked sixth renew those friendship bonds which the field while in Europe and Cahir Park in Tipperary is so important for everybody. We have was the venue in recent weeks for some dates booked in for Portlaoise and it too the lads were welcome on field training sessions is an excellent facility which can cater under the direction of International for our needs. delighted to manager Christy McElligott. “We had operated with some Zoom meet up again A good showing in the European calls and players tried to look after their Championships could earn the Republic own individual fitness regimes but it and renew a slot in the 2022 World Cup which is was always going to be difficult during those pencilled in for . lock down and I know myself because I’ve put on a couple of pounds and friendship McElligott, a former League of Ireland that’s now part of my own challenge to championship winner with St Patrick’s shed the extra weight.” bonds which Athletic, lost a leg in a serious motoring accident, is the driving force behind The situation with regards to travel is so the Irish Amputee Football Association is posing logistical problems for as well as being the international team Scotland’s Patrick Thistle but Christy is important manager. hopeful that it will be resolved positively for everyone. for Currently, an FAI Football For All Development Officer, Christy is playing “The addition of Partrick Thistle has everybody with Shamrock Rovers in a league that been so beneficial for the league. is also made up of Cork City, current There’s no one else currently in champions Bohemian FC and Scottish Scotland for them to compete against club Partick Thistle. on a regular basis and even if it’s been a bit of a learning curve for them, it’s also His intention is to continue playing club been so positive for all the domestic football but he is stepping away from clubs and we are genuinely delighted to the demands of international football. have them as members of our league.” stated Christy. “I want to concentrate on managing the international side and it’ll help me focus The upcoming return to action later better if I don’t have to worry about the this month will not feature the Scottish playing side. We have a couple of new side but that is simply because players breaking through to the senior travel restrictions are proving a little side while we’ve also introduced some challenging currently, so the scheduled of our academy players to the senior series of games down in Portlaoise will training camps to familiarise them with be for Bohemians, Cork and Shamrock 44 45 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE

22 while the travelling squad will fine- tune their preparations a week later with another workout at the impressive UL Sports complex in . Departure for Krakow will be on September 9 or 10 for what will be a 10 day trip.

Heretofore the amputee domestic league was sponsored by Megazyme and Christy is grateful and hopeful that there will be a renewed involvement while Hampton Flooring have also come on board as an associate sponsor.

“I cannot talk highly enough about Megazyme and the support they have given us and on behalf of all the clubs of the league a big thank you for all your support to date. I’m also delighted to announce Hampton Flooring for partnering with us. We are dependent on sponsorship to help us run our activities and without their contribution we would struggle to fulfill our programme.”

Added McElligott: “The Amputee League is a very competitive environment but it is also a great sporting arena with high class games on show and we would welcome any other potential sponsors coming on board to assist with the promotion and development of the Rovers only. We’ve developed strong friendships FAI in the UEFA Amputee Champions Amputee game.” “We’d love to have Partick come over and they are very much part and parcel League. but we’re giving them some more time of our future plans here in Ireland for to put travel arrangements in place so amputee football,” insisted McElligott. The league programme will be played Can you help the Irish Amputee the plan is to have a round-robin series at Portlaoise with dates pencilled in for Football Association through a of games with the Irish based clubs.” The proposal is that the clubs will earn June 27, August 8, October 23rd and sponsorship programme? points for their performances and a November 20th. If you can, please contact: Christy “We all understand the difficulties for league table will be compiled on the McElligott - 083 8162334; Email: people travelling but we look forward to back of the mini-series which will A national training camp weekend will [email protected] their return at the earliest opportunity. determine which club will represent the be held in August on the weekend of the FFA Development Officer

46 47 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE focus: AMateur football league AFL reports 15% growth only and return next season with a full complement of league and cup programmes in the pipeline for 2022,” said Daly. and sets their “We have an increase of 15% in numerical strength which is very pleasing for us as a league. Players just want to get back out there on the field of play and I think giving every sights on adding team a league programme with an end of season in October will kick start us back up and running just nicely. competitive action and simply meeting up again with team mates is just as “I don’t know if it’s because people are important as society re-emerges from fed up and just want to get out but we’re Covid-19 restrictions. women’s division more than happy to provide competitive action for them here in the Amateur “It’s been unprecedented for everyone ALONGSIDE the women’s game, they also have plans to start a Women’s Football League and we are thrilled and while a lot of people took to walking the Over 35s grade has proved one Over 35s division. that we have 14 new clubs joining our or cycling, our experience is that clubs of ’s genuine ranks,” added Daly. are more than keen to return to playing grassroots growth areas. League chairman Noel Daly along with and that positivity is reflected in our his executive committee have been With a simple league formula to look growing numbers,” said a contented Now, with the emergence from the busy preparing for the upcoming 2021 ahead to, it also means that the fabled Daly. enforced hibernation, the Amateur season across 11 divisions and the Amateur Cup will be kept on hold for a Football League reports an instant action is scheduled to get underway on little while longer. Likewise, the prospects of an AFL bounce to their numbers with a the weekend of June 26/27. Women’s division is also central to the percentage increase just short of 15% Chairman Daly believes the appeal league’s development plans. in their numerical strength. The league “It’s a shortened season and we are of the Over 35s grade has as much has added a new Saturday division and looking to run off league divisions to do with friendships as it has with Explains Daly: “It’s a topic we have 48 49 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE

Noel Daly with Peter Connolly the AFL Cup

focus: wexford football league

discussed while we have also had up of nationals from Mauritius who soundings about setting a division up have been training in Fairview Park. darlex present new and it’s all extremely positive, so we are now actively looking at adding that Tony McGarry (Bluebell United) and platform to meet that growing demand. Stephen Belleli (Cottage Celtic) have It’s a new departure for us and we joined the AFL Executive ranks and Noel kit to north end united are excited about the potential in the paid tribute to his committee members coming years.” and recognised the great voluntary DARLEX MD Gregg Browne presented champions have been back training work undertaken. North End United, Wexford League with a hunger to retain their crown. “The AFL offers a fantastic outlet for Division 1 Champions manager Stuart A summer tournament in the style of players after they have finished their “The whole committee is deserving Lawor with a new kit for the coming the Champions League facilitated by junior football days and it’s a good of our gratitude,” said Daly. “In Peter season. the Wexford Football League kicks off avenue and you’ve got to remember Connolly we have a thoroughly efficient early June. lots of these guys are best friends. It’s honorary secretary as are AFL Executive The club will field 12 teams both the exact same for women who also members and like all of our clubs they Men and Women with schoolboys/ WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU want to get out and play the game too.” too are excited about the imminent girls from their Hollygrove base on Belvedere Road in Wexford Town. THIS is your magazine. FAI GRASSROOTS return to football.” is open to every single league under One of the additions to the AFL ranks John Godkin and Gary Dempsey will the Football Association of Ireland’s include for the 2021 season in founder Concluded Daly: “On behalf of the jurisdiction. If you’d like to feature and members Home Farm FC who have whole league administration I’d like to be in control of the club`s flagship Premier team. The current holders of have a story about your club, team or entered a team in the league after an welcome all our returning and new clubs league, please make contact with FAI absence of many years while adding a and to wish each and every player the the Leinster Junior Cup and Wexford Football League Premier League GRASSROOTS by emailing bit of an exotic flavour is a team made best of sporting luck for the season.” [email protected] 50 51 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE focus: wicklow League WICKLOW LOOK TO ESTABLISH WOMEN’S LEAGUE BY paul dowling

WITH a reported nine clubs expressing football in the county came under their Blessington an interest, the Wicklow and District remit. native and Football League are hopeful of Ireland WNT establishing a Women’s League for Since then, clubs throughout Wicklow star Louise Quinn 2021 season. have been canvassed to garner interest in their communities. Earlier in 2021, Michael Conlon (Chairman of the Wicklow League) “We need to get to the position that informed clubs that following the ALL clubs support and have a women’s restructuring of the FAI, that Women’s team if player numbers permit and are

52 53 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE

One of the catalysts for the success Alannah McEvoy Michael Conlon of today was the Wicklow Ladies Soccer Academy – founded by Hughie Nolan, Tony Poutch, Dave McGuirk, Pat Kearney, and Irene Hackett - which laid the foundation for many players including 2014 Puskás Award 2014 goal of the year nominee Stephanie Roche.

For this upcoming campaign, Greystones United AFC will field Under 19 and Under 17 teams in the Women’s National League.

Greystones United AFC, Enniskerry FC and Wicklow Rovers have teams in the Metropolitan Girls League

Enniskerry Youth Club line out in the Eastern Women’s Football League while Arklow Town, Aughrim Rangers and Coolboy Rangers are currently plying available” said Conlon. steering committee that will run the Ireland squad. their trade at underage in Wexford. new League. In correspondence with clubs earlier U19 cap Alannah McEvoy (Bray - Wicklow Rovers, Rathnew AFC and this month, Conlon revealed more good “Additionally, if any club has somebody Peamount United) – grand-daughter of Newtown Juniors have had Ladies news. who would be interested in helping the Legendary Andy McEvoy – is close senior teams of late, with Newtown the league make this a reality, please to a Senior call-up. memorably winning the Leinster Under “A meeting will be held with the relevant put them in touch with myself or any 14 title. clubs to discuss the formation of a committee member. Their assistance There is further Wicklow presence in Women’s League for the forthcoming (especially if involved in the women’s the Women’s National League (WNL) season. We have had a positive game) would be gratefully appreciated.” with Beckie Cassin (Rathdrum – Cork response to this with nine clubs City); Edel Kennedy (Carnew – Wexford indicating an interest.” The Garden County has always been Youths Women) and Nicole Keogh (Bray a hotbed for women’s football, with a – DLR Waves). He went on to explain: “Some clubs strong support for the game in a large have still not responded to this, and I catchment area. They have all followed on trailblazers would urge them to do so. We are still like world boxing champion open to more female participants.” Presently – Aine O’Gorman (Enniskerry who played internationally for the Girls – Peamount United) and Claire Walsh in Green while the likes of Rachel The League chairman also made a call (Kilbride – Peamount United) as well as Jenkins, Susan Hackett, Maria Hogan for club members and officials to help Louise Quinn (Blessington – Fiorentina) and Chelsee Snell excelled. the league by joining an organising/ are members of the Senior Republic of 54 55 FAI GRASSROOTS ISSUE ONE CLUB ... LEAGUE ... ASSOCIATION ... PROVINCE ... NATIONAL YOUR GRASSROOTS NOTICEBOARD ROUND-UP

WELCOME SPONSORSHIP FOR DUNDALK SCHOOLBOYS FOCUS: SLIGO LEITRIM LEAGUE

AS part of Dundalk Credit Union’s ongoing commitment to grass roots youth sports and community development, they are delighted to announce a three-year sponsorship agreement with the Dundalk Schoolboys League. Artificial pitch installation at Ray

This agreement will see the Dundalk Schoolboys League, an established and integral MacSharry Park nears completion part of sports development within our wider community, renamed The Dundalk Credit Union Schoolboys League. The League draws talent from across Co Louth and THE Sligo Leitrim DSL is closing in on the completion of the development of a new manages league and cup competitions for teams from fifteen affiliated clubs in age artificial pitch and ground works at Ray MacSharry Park in Cranmore, Co Sligo. Work groups from Under 12 to Under 18 years and by organising representative teams has progressed well and all works are due to be completed in Mid / late July for the from these age groups and entering them in suitable national and international progressive Connacht league’s home base. competitions. SIS Pitches, the world renowned company that has worked on some of the world’s This new agreement will see the teams within The Dundalk Credit Union Schoolboys biggest stadiums and owned by Sligo’s George Mullan, is overseeing the project League fitted out with new playing kits across all age groups and in addition, offers which is expected to take approximately eight weeks to complete. It is expected to The Dundalk Credit Union Schoolboys League an opportunity and avenue to further cost €400,000 in total, with the FAI providing €100,000. A further €197,591.00 was strengthen and grow their strategic plans for The League into the future. received through a grant under the Sports Capital Programme.

Billy Doyle, CEO Dundalk Credit Union said “The Dundalk Schoolboys League was Said Noel Kennedy: “The state of the art pitch will be a brilliant facility addition to our established in 1927 in response to a local community need, similar to that of league and I’m grateful to all who have contributed financially including new FAI CEO Dundalk Credit Union and its founders in 1968. As organisations, we listened to, and Jonathan Hill for his good offices in helping us secure the necessary funding from the answered the needs of our communities, and Dundalk Credit Union is very proud to national association.” work together with The League to showcase the importance of team, motivation and focus in success.” The league is also hoping to hold a Memorabilia Auction in July 2021 and are currently accepting items for auction that will allow us to generate much needed revenue. All Michael Dillon, Chairman, Dundalk Schoolboys League added “Dundalk Schoolboys items received will be acknowledged in writing and through all Social Media outlets. League are delighted to be partnering with Dundalk Credit Union with this sponsorship agreement. The support provided by the Credit Union through this sponsorship will IF you have any items - jerseys or other WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU underpin the activities of the League going forward. This agreement will provide football memorabilia that you would like capital for facility improvement and maintenance and for the purchase of equipment to contribute to the upcoming auction, THIS is your magazine and these are your pages. FAI and kit. please contact Noel Kennedy GRASSROOTS is open to every single league under the With this sponsorship agreement Dundalk Credit Union has shown its commitment to on 087 2586003. Football Association of Ireland’s jurisdiction. If you’d like to feature and have a story about your club, team or grassroots football in the area and, once again, the value it provides as a community league, please make contact with FAI GRASSROOTS by based Financial Institution that supports many and varied community groups and emailing [email protected] activities.” We want to promote the grassroots game and you can help us put the spotlight on some of the great work 56 carried out nationwide on behalf of the game. 58