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UEFA Disney PlayMakers

UEFA Disney Playmakers is a new programme that the FAI are running alongside UEFA and Disney in clubs across Ireland. It’s for girls aged 5-8 years who are not currently playing football and it invites them to step into the magical world of Disney as they take their first steps on their football journey.

https://www.fai.ie/play-and-participate/women-and-girls-football/fai-programmes/disney-playmakers/

In Her Boots

In Her Boots, in partnership with Aviva, is an education and awareness-based programme aimed at the football volunteer workforce across Ireland working with female players. The programme will focus on topics that are vital for the participation and retention of young female players in football across Ireland. This new approach to female player development, celebrates and informs all levels of your club on a national scale. The programme is created for those working with girls aged 9-16.

https://www.fai.ie/play-and-participate/in-her-boots-aviva-1/

Kick Fit

The FAI Cadbury Kick Fit programme is a fun and non-competitive recreational social programme for women 18+, with no experience necessary. While the primary aim of this programme is to keep fit and create a social group, most clubs who have run this programme have benefitted from recruitment of additional female coaches, female committee members & formation of a women’s team. The programme will run in 61 venues across the country in 2024, running for 8 weeks, with one-hour sessions per week. Register to your nearest Cadbury Kick Fit venue below.

https://www.fai.ie/play-and-participate/women-and-girls-football/fai-programmes/cadbury-kick-fit/

Any club interested can register interest by contacting:

Conor McKahey

FAI Cork

Women's & Girl's Development Officer

conor.mckahey@fai.ie

0862042434

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FAI & Aviva launch In Her Boots Programme to aid the development of girls

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The Football Association of Ireland and Aviva Ireland are proud to launch In Her Boots, a free education and awareness-based programme aimed at empowering the football volunteer workforce, who train girls aged 9-16.

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Kickfit in Carrigtwohill (video D.Coughlan)

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Watch this space for our conference plans in 2025!

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Watch this space for our conference plans in 2025!

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Through the FAI Club Mark Award, the FAI will support clubs on their journey towards good governance, management and administration.

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Through the FAI Club Mark Award, the FAI will support clubs on their journey towards good governance, management and administration.

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- reward clubs for achieving and maintaining high standards

- provide recognition to clubs for their commitment and achievements

- Increase club’s capacity to operate effectively and grow football in communities throughout Ireland.

It also ensures that Club’s have a minimum operating criteria in relation governance and the Safeguarding of the children in their care.

Our Regional officers in Cork will provide support across a variety of programme areas and from August 2025 onwards :

1. Every club that engages with one of our Development programmes must have submitted an application for FAI Club Mark Entry Level Football Association of Ireland | Club Mark (fai.ie)

2. In the event of being oversubscribed for any programme we will prioritise those clubs that have achieved the Entry Level criteria

Please direct enquiries towards FAI Cork’s Club Officer Ray Claffey ray.claffey@fai.ie

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Autumn / Winter 2025 Coach Development Courses in Cork

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Autumn / Winter 2025 Coach Development Courses in Cork

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Each team needs a certified coach as part of the FAI Club Mark process.

Please direct your coaches towards these courses.

Ray Claffey ray.claffey@fai.ie

Course Details: Online

Safeguarding 1 | MS Teams

Monday, 8th September | 18:30 – 21:30 | Cost €10

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting through the FAI.

Link: https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/37130978

Course Details: Online

Safeguarding 1 | MS Teams

Monday, 15th September | 18:30 – 21:30 | Cost €10

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting through the FAI.

Link:    https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/37131066

Course Details: In Person

Safeguarding 2 | Blarney United

Tuesday, 16th September | 18:30 – 21:30 | Cost €15 | T23 VK25

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting through the FAI & Safeguarding 1

Link:  https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/37190326

Course Details: In Person

Safeguarding 3 | Blarney United

Wednesday, 17th September | 18:30 – 21:30 | Cost €15 | T23 VK25

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting through the FAI & Safeguarding 1

Link: https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/37190456

Course Details: Online

Safeguarding 1 | MS Teams

Monday, 22nd September | 18:30 – 21:30 | Cost €10

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting through the FAI.

Link: https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/37190614

Course Details: In Person

Me & My Ball | Mallow United

Wednesday, 24th September | 6:30 – 9:30 |

This course is aimed at coaches working with children aged 5-7. Coaches will learn how to create a fun, inclusive environment that emphasises positive movement, play, & ball skills.

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting & Safeguarding 1.

Link  https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/38718319

Course Details: Online

Safeguarding 1 | MS Teams

Monday, 29th September | 18:30 – 21:30 | Cost €10

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting through the FAI.

Link:  https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/37191130

Course Details: In Person

Me & My Skills | Clonakity AFC

Monday, 29th September | 6:00 – 9:00 | P85 Y009

This course is aimed at coaches working with children aged 8-11. Coaches will build on the foundations of ‘Me & My Ball’, with further ball mastery & small-sided games to foster creativity.

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting & Safeguarding 1.

Link  https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/37572438

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Book your place at the mycomet links below : 

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NEW FAI / CADBURY KICK FIT PROGRAMMES AT CLONAKILTY AFC, LEEDS AFC, MALLOW UTD FC STARTING IN CORK THIS SEPTEMBER

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NEW FAI / CADBURY KICK FIT PROGRAMMES AT CLONAKILTY AFC, LEEDS AFC, MALLOW UTD FC STARTING IN CORK THIS SEPTEMBER

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Cork Cadbury’s Kick Fit venue registration links:

Clonakilty AFC

https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/22697783

Leeds AFC

https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/17355545

Mallow United AFC

https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/17354286

We also have 2 blitzes for all Kickfit groups running during September & October, information below.

Cadbury's Kick Fit blitz info:

Mallow United AFC

Date: 12th of September

Time: 7-9 pm

Venue: P51RWY0

Clonakilty AFC

Date: 19th of October

Time: 1-3 pm

Venue: P85DR12

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Another ten week block of Football training starts at Douglas Hall FC on Feb 22nd. Register here : https://forms.office.com/e/fr5JZWw2Bz Call FAI Cork Development Officer Alan Bennett for details : 0864401034

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https://www.fai.ie/domestic/referees/referee-beginner-courses

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2023 Facility Investment Vision and Strategy for Irish Football 

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2023 Facility Investment Vision and Strategy for Irish Football 

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Facility Investment Vision and Strategy | Football Association of Ireland

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Football is the number one participation sport in Ireland, offering a unique force for good and a positive impact on Irish society at all levels. As the sport thrives, both public and private funding is needed to transform Irish football's facilities and infrastructure so we can inspire current and future generations.

Our vision is to create infrastructure that enables Ireland's number one participation sport to thrive and grow.

220k+

Registered Football Players

45k+

Registered Volunteers

€1.8bn

Total Current Impact of Participation

220k+

Registered Football Players

45k+

Registered Volunteers

€1.8bn

Total Current Impact of Participation

Infrastructure and Facilities

Football has been under invested in for the last 25 years and we have fallen behind our European counterparts in facilities investment

Delivering Transformational Impact

We need to take decisive action and create a modern and fit-for-purpose football infrastructure and industry and in doing so transform football in Ireland. Football is ready to lead the way in multi-club, multi-sport, community-focused facility planning

Rooted in our Strategic Vision

Our vision to inspire current and future generations will suffer if we do not invest in facilities now, as we will not be able to cater for this ongoing demand and growth particularly for women and girls and generally around the LOI

Public and Private Funding

We have identified our investment needs and timeframes to deliver on our objectives which include funding from a range of stakeholders including Government, UEFA/FIFA, local project partners and of course the FAI and its clubs/affiliates

The FAI will work with public and private stakeholders

to facilitate our ambitious plan to stimulate investment into a growing Irish football community. It is our plan to support this funding strategy by the establishment of a new and independent Ireland Football Facility Fund, ensuring a consistent, professional, and dedicated focus on facilities.

Our facilities survey was completed by 87% of our grassroots clubs and highlighted the need for new and improved facilities to cater for the growing numbers who want to play and be part of football

The current FAI National Training Centre is nowhere near the same standard of facilities at comparative European Associations.

Many Grassroots clubs do not have any form of community-focused clubhouse

Only 10% of clubs have access to an indoor hall/space

55% of clubs do not own their facilities and rely on leases

27% of clubs have leases for less than one-year meaning financial uncertainty and instability

31% of clubs are required to operate out of secondary facilities in order to meet the required pitch demand for training and matches

Most grassroots clubs struggle with demand from women and girls with 38% of clubs not having female-friendly toilets at all

Investment will drive the growth and quality of the LOI product

So supporting an increase in overall attendances, attracting new fans to the game, new media partners, increasing revenues, improving talent development and enabling the creation of a real industry around football in Ireland.

A key strategic objective of the FAI is to produce competitive international teams at all levels

across both genders, but the current FAI National Training Centre is nowhere near the same standard of facilities at comparative European Associations

What we need

Our own National Football Centre building on Campus

3x FIFA Quality 4G pitches, one with a covered dome

3 x FIFA Quality grass pitches

Changing, coaching, analysis and education facilities

Medical, sports science and kit equipment facilities

Our own National Football Centre building on Campus

3x FIFA Quality 4G pitches, one with a covered dome

3 x FIFA Quality grass pitches

Changing, coaching, analysis and education facilities

Medical, sports science and kit equipment facilities

How We'll Make this Vision a Reality

Our vision provides a platform for central and local government along with private investment and the support of the FAI and the wider football community to move forward in achieving a transformed facilities infrastructure and societally 'a better quality of life'. Adapting a community-led approach with all stakeholders will deliver transformational change on a local, regional and national scale.

Our ask is ambitious, but in context it is achievable and we will work with all stakeholders to review and access all potential revenue streams. Transformation on this scale cannot be achieved by relying on traditional investment and funding sources alone.

It requires a fresh approach - coordinating the football family,
outlining our vision for the future of the game and encouraging strategic investment. We believe the best way to do this is with the establishment of an independent facility, ensuring a dedicated focus on facilities transformation and offering a separate and trusted governance model, financially independent from the FAI.

Football

Funding Vehicle

Central FAI Investment, including:

Direct FAI investment resources

UEFA Hat Trick support

FIFA Forward support

Club Investment

Private Investment (via the Ireland Football Facility Fund)

Local Project Partners

Funding Vehicle

Local Authorities (matched funding)

Educational Bodies / Institutions

Local Health Authorities

Government

Funding Vehicle

SCEP (ongoing)

LSSIF (ongoing)

Immigrant Investor Programme (closing)

Shared Island Fund (new)

Share of Betting Levy (new)

Brexit Adjustment Reserve (new)

Other options (new)

This is an ambitious plan

The size of the challenge requires ambition but also needs to be in touch with reality

A Facilities Transformation programme on this scale is a significant undertaking and from a standing start means we will need time to build capacity

We have therefore phased our plan over three blocks of five years - averaging nearly 170 projects a year

Given the scale of planning already underway across the LOI (e.g. €96m currently under consideration for IIP) we believe the early push in Phase 1 is realistic

Phase 1 represents our peak in recognition that this is a challenge for today. If we backload the investment, another generation of players will lack the facilities they deserve

The size of the challenge requires ambition but also needs to be in touch with reality

A Facilities Transformation programme on this scale is a significant undertaking and from a standing start means we will need time to build capacity

We have therefore phased our plan over three blocks of five years - averaging nearly 170 projects a year

Given the scale of planning already underway across the LOI (e.g. €96m currently under consideration for IIP) we believe the early push in Phase 1 is realistic

Phase 1 represents our peak in recognition that this is a challenge for today. If we backload the investment, another generation of players will lack the facilities they deserve

Phased Investment of 15 Years | €863 M

Our vision for Irish football will become
a reality with funding and investment

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FAI - Facility Investment Vision and Strategy for Irish Football

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Facility Investment Vision and Strategy for Irish Football. Our vision is to create infrastructure that enables Ireland's number one participation sport to thrive and grow.

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What is Club Mark

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Course Details: In Person

Me & My Ball | Blarney United

Tuesday, 30th September | 6:30 – 9:30 | T23 VK25

This course is aimed at coaches working with children aged 5-7. Coaches will learn how to create a fun, inclusive environment that emphasises positive movement, play, & ball skills.

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting & Safeguarding 1.

Link         https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/38718715

Course Details: In Person

Me & My Ball | Leeds AFC

Wednesday, 1st October | 6:30 – 9:30 | | T23 XW60

This course is aimed at coaches working with children aged 5-7. Coaches will learn how to create a fun, inclusive environment that emphasises positive movement, play, & ball skills.

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting & Safeguarding 1.

Link         https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/38796821

Course Details: In Person

Me & My Skills | Fermoy AFC

Tuesday, 7th October | 6:30 – 9:30 | Cost €45  | P61 YW88

This course is aimed at coaches working with children aged 8-11. Coaches will build on the foundations of ‘Me & My Ball’, with further ball mastery & small-sided games to foster creativity.

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting & Safeguarding 1.

Link     https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/38796965

Course Details: Online

Safeguarding 1 | MS Teams

Tuesday, 7th October | 18:30 – 21:30 | Cost €10

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting through the FAI.

Link: https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/38630795

Course Details: In Person

Goalkeeping Intro| Ringmahon Park

Wednesday, 8th October | 6:30 – 9:30 | T12 PT63

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting & Safeguarding 1.

Link    https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/38797135

Course Details: Online & In Person

Me & My Club | Blarney United

Wednesday, 15th October ONLINE & Thursday 16th October | 6:30 – 9:30 | Cost €45 | T23 VK25

This course is aimed at coaches working in the adult game.

Link https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/38797483

Course Details: In Person

Me & My Skills | Leeds AFC

Tuesday, 22nd October | 6:30 – 9:30 | Cost €45  | T23 XW60

This course is aimed at coaches working with children aged 8-11. Coaches will build on the foundations of ‘Me & My Ball’, with further ball mastery & small-sided games to foster creativity.

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting & Safeguarding 1.

Link    https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/38797958

Course Details: In Person

Me & My Ball | Youghal United

Wednesday, 5th November | 6:30 – 9:30 | Cost €45 | P36 HP27

This course is aimed at coaches working with children aged 5-7. Coaches will learn how to create a fun, inclusive environment that emphasises positive movement, play, & ball skills.

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting & Safeguarding 1.

Link   https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/38798475

Course Details: In Person

Me & My Skills | Youghal United

Wednesday, 12th November | 6:30 – 9:30 | Cost €45 | P36 HP27

This course is aimed at coaches working with children aged 8-11. Coaches will build on the foundations of ‘Me & My Ball’, with further ball mastery & small-sided games to foster creativity.

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting & Safeguarding 1.

Link     https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/38798576

Course Details: In Person

FAI Grassroots (Formerly D Licence) | Leeds AFC

Saturday, 15th November | 10:00 – 4:00 | Cost €90 | T23 XW60

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting & Safeguarding 1. Coaches must have two of the following pre- requisite courses to be eligible to register for the FAI Grassroots Coach -

PDP1/MMB, PDP2/MMS, PDP3/MMT or MMC/Adult Amateur

Link    https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/38798243

Course Details: In Person

Goalkeeping Intro| Youghal United

Wednesday, 19th November | 6:30 – 9:30 | Cost €25 | P36 HP27

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting & Safeguarding 1.

Link https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/38798851

Course Details: In Person

National Goalkeeping Licence | Bandon AFC

Saturday 10th and Sunday 11th January 2026 | 10:00 – 5:00| Cost €150 |

Minimum Requirements: Garda Vetting,  Safeguarding 1 & Goalkeeping Intro Certificate.

Link: https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/38824729

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Cork Womens and Schoolgirls Soccer League

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CWSSL League Trials 2019/2020 U12 LEAGUE CENTRE- Open to years 2008 & 2009- Cost €80 for 12 weeks U13 LEAGUE CENTRE & CORK FAI TRIALS - Now closedU15 LEAGUE CENTRE & CORK FAI TRIALS - Now closed Please make sure players do not wear metal studded or blade boots, that they wear suitable clothing and bring a...

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CWSSL League Trials 2019/2020 U12 LEAGUE CENTRE- Open to years 2008 & 2009- Cost €80 for 12 weeks U13 LEAGUE CENTRE & CORK FAI TRIALS - Now closedU15 LEAGUE CENTRE & CORK FAI TRIALS - Now closed Please make sure players do not wear metal studded or blade boots, that they wear suitable clothing and bring a...

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An award for grassroots clubs based on best practice in the

governance, management and administration of a club.

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All you need to know about FAI Grassroots programmes that can support your Club or School

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All you need to know about FAI Grassroots programmes that can support your Club or School

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Football Opportunities for people with additional needs

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The Football Association was the first Sports Governing Body in Ireland to appoint a National Coordinator with this remit and the programme has been a huge success. Many agencies and groups recognise how football can contribute to the quality of life to so many thousands of Irish people.

The FAI now has two full-time staff with responsibility for facilitating a clear pathway to cater for players with various disabilities from club to country where abilities allow.

The Football for All programme is made up of players from all groups and sporting bodies that cater for people with a disability who want to play football. At the moment we have approximately 3,800 players participating in all of our programmes. The FAI in the past 4 years has established a number of associations to govern particular programmes within Football For All, these are Blind Football Ireland (BFI), Association of Irish Powerchair Football (AIPF) and Irish Amputee Football Association(IAFA). All three independently govern their specific football game across Ireland providing the pathway for their members from grassroots to international where possible.

In 2010 the FAI Football For All programme established a network of Football For All Clubs through our existing community clubs across Ireland. These clubs provide opportunities for children with specific needs and may struggle to excel in the competitive environment of underage football or who need additional supports to develop as footballers to join the club, train and compete at FAI FFA club festivals. For more information please go to our FFA Club section.

Coach education plays a key role in the development of our FFA players and in the insurance that our clubs and coaches have the confidence and passion to be inclusive and provide opportunities for all children and adults in Ireland to access football at suitable levels. For more information on our educational courses when working with players with disabilities check out our coach education calendar.

The FAI recognises that some people or communities start from a disadvantaged position and may need assistance from the Association to access all opportunities that exist in football.
For Further information please contact:
Vincent Foley, Interim FFA National Coordinator
Email:footballforall@fai.ie

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The Football Association was the first Sports Governing Body in Ireland to appoint a National Coordinator with this remit and the programme has been a huge success. Many agencies and groups recognise how football can contribute to the quality of life to so many thousands of Irish people.

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https://support.faiconnect.ie/home/mycomet/

All Coach Education, Referee Education and Child Welfare courses can now be booked online.

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Notice to all FAI Registered Referees

We hope you and your family are well as the country emerges from lock down measures and we prepare for the return of football across the country. Due to the cancellation of the National Seminar Programme the Referee Department were unable to facilitate the annual registration of our match officials for season 2020 / 2021. To remedy this the Department in cooperation with the National Referee Committee have created an online registration platform which provides all of our match officials with the facility to register for season 2020 / 2021. The traditional paper based registration method is also available.

We understand that during these challenging times our daily routines have been disrupted. To facilitate our match officials and make the registration process as accessible as possible the National Referees Committee has extended the current registration period until the 31st of August 2020. This extension will give referees more time to complete the registration process and allow the Referees Department time to ensure each referee is registered for Season 2020 / 2021.

The registration process is very starlight forward and is available at the link below. Click on the button and complete the online registration form and submit with payment of €25.00. Once complete you will receive an email receipt with confirmation of payment. Please retain this for you records. If you have any difficulty with your registration please contact the Referee Department at referees@fai.ie

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Referees can also register by downloading the registration form which is available at the link below. Please return the completed form along with the €25.00 registration fee to Referee Department, Football Association of Ireland, National Sports Campus, Abbotstown, Dublin 15. On receipt of your registration form the Referee Department will send you a confirmation email.

CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD FORM

If you have any queries relating to registration, please feel free to contact the Referee Department at referees@fai.ie

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We hope you and your family are well as the country emerges from lock down measures and we prepare for the return of football across the country. Due to the cancellation of the National Seminar Programme the Referee Department were unable to facilitate the annual registration of our match officials for season 2020 / 2021.

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Garda vetting application link - average turn around time from date of submission is 3 weeks!

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Garda vetting application link - average turn around time from date of submission is 3 weeks!

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https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/12438784

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Football For All Club Programme

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Safeguarding

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The Football Association of Ireland is committed to ensuring that Children, Young Persons and Vulnerable Persons can participate in all football activities in a safe environment. Football provides an excellent opportunity to learn new skills, become more confident and maximise potential as members of teams and as individuals. Participation in football should be fun, enjoyable and provide a platform to learn and develop life skills, make new friends and enhance personal growth. The safety and welfare of all is paramount.

The Children First Act 2015 has provided a great statutory framework for all, supporting Children and Young People, ensuring the they are kept safe and their welfare maintained to a high standard whilst participating within the services we provide. Additionally, the Children First National Guidance for the Protection and Welfare of Children 2017, is a great guidance when introducing measures to fulfil the statutory obligations of the Children First Act 2015.

The FAI acknowledges that all our members and volunteers are playing their part in providing an enjoyable and safe environment in which Children and Vulnerable Persons can play, learn and thrive within football. We thank the countless number of participants, many of whom are volunteers, for their commitment, hard work and dedication which has contributed in no small way to making football one of the biggest participation sports in Ireland today, with over 450,000 participants. The work of Affiliated Members, particularly the Club/League Children's Officers and the Designated Liaison Persons, is of crucial importance to implementing this Policy and their endeavours need to be acknowledged and supported at all levels within the game. Their efforts are deeply appreciated and the full adoption and application of this Policy by everyone in football will help ensure the promotion of happy, healthy and successful experiences.

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The Football Association of Ireland is committed to ensuring that Children, Young Persons and Vulnerable Persons can participate in all football activities in a safe environment. Football provides an excellent opportunity to learn new skills, become more confident and maximise potential as members of teams and as individuals.

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The FAI Facility Development Unit

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It works in partnership with key stakeholders by offering advice on quality standards and assisting with technical queries, master planning and design advice at every stage of the development of football infrastructure projects including the layout of grounds, clubhouse planning and pitch construction. The FAI Facilitiy Development Unit can be contacted at facilities@fai.ie

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It works in partnership with key stakeholders by offering advice on quality standards and assisting with technical queries, master planning and design advice at every stage of the development of football infrastructure projects including the layout of grounds, clubhouse planning and pitch construction.

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Getting started on the coaching pathway

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For a coach starting out in Grassroots football, what are the first steps that they should take?
Firstly, they should ensure they are Garda Vetted and have completed the Safeguarding one workshop, then they should look to enter on to our Coach Education pathway.

Look at the entry point video below and register for a course relating to the age group they are coaching.
Video: Pathway Explained Entry Points Webinar: 2021-2025 FAI Coach Education Pathway
Why is it important to complete the Garda Vetting form and Safeguarding course?
It is a statutory requirement, that all individuals, volunteers or paid, working with Children and Vulnerable Persons have completed Garda Vetting clearance before engaging with an Organisation or services.

Garda Vetting is a FAI Rule for all those working with children and or vulnerable persons (in a paid or voluntary capacity). Another part of the Safe recruitment is relevant training needed, it is a mandatory requirement that all coaches complete the Safeguarding 1 workshop.

What is the PDP1 course exactly?
The PDP 1 course is an entry level course on the Coach Education pathway and for coaches who are coaching at Under-6 to Under-9 age group.

The only prerequisite for this course will be that all participants are Garda vetted and have completed the Safeguarding 1 course before completing this course.

The PDP 1 course caters for all levels of coaches and focuses on the specifics in the age group of 6-9. It's a one day course lasting 8 hours with content being a mix of theory and practical.

The courses are available all year round and spread out geographically around the country. The course can even be held and delivered in your club if you have a minimum of 10 coaches looking to participate and complete it, contact coached@fai.ie for more details.

What will I learn from the PDP1 course?
The course covers all areas of the game and training. Participants will learn about What is football?, the structure of the game, the playing formats and structures of the PDP plan for age the specific age groups.

How to plan and implement a coaching practice with examples and a booklet of coaching practice plans provided. The Coach Educator will deliver practical demonstrations and the participants then get the opportunity to get involved in small groups or pairs to put on a short practice.

The role of the grassroots coach. the characteristics of the players aged 6-9 and the importance of fun and enjoyment for this age group.

The course will also cover how the use of self-reflection can help improve you as a coach and therefore improve the players.

Are many of these courses taking place with COVID-19 restrictions still ongoing?
Currently the only courses that have recommenced are at UEFA A & B Licence level. The grassroots courses have not recommenced yet.

We are working very hard to get all courses back up and running and hope to have some good news very soon. We also recently recorded coaching practices with the intention of delivering PDP 1 and PDP 2 courses online with some post course assignments for participants in order to complete the course, this will be for those who have had their course cancelled due to covid-19. The participants who have registered for these courses will all be contacted by email with an update and options as soon as we have confirmation.

What if I'm managing at a more senior level than kids but haven't done any coaching courses, where do I start out?
Great news! We have recently redesigned and updated our course catered for the senior game. The new course on our pathway is called the Adult Amateur Licence and covers all areas of the game relating to adult amateur football.

The only prerequisite for this course will be that all participants are Garda vetted and have completed the Safeguarding 1 course before completing this course.

The course will be a mix of theory and practical content and will be 16 hours long. The structure of the game, football actions, and coaching practice demonstrations relating to the adult game are just some examples of what will be covered on the course. The participants will also receive a booklet of coaching practice session plans.

What do I need in order to take part in any of the courses?
You need to book and register for the course online. Go to the FAI website and under the domestic section, click on book a course.

At the moment, due to COVID-19 there are no courses available online to book. We hope to update this soon so please keep an eye on the website, our social media and the newsletters.

If you have any further queries or questions please feel free to email coached@fai.ie

What is the difference between the PDP1 and PDP2 course?
In the 2021-2025 Coach Education Pathway both courses are one day and eight hours long.

The PDP 1 caters for coaches coaching at U6-U9, where the PDP 2 caters for coaches coaching at U10-U12.

The PDP 2 course content goes into more advanced detail on what is football, football actions and the PDP 2 formats and guides for these ages.

The Coach Educator demonstrations are more advanced and each participant must take part and coach after the demonstrations are delivered. Feedback on the practical will be then be provided to the group by the Coach Educator where learnings can be identified.

Similarly to the PDP 1, each coach will receive a booklet of age specific coaching practice plans, this time for the U10 - U12 ages, these plans will be more advanced than the PDP 1 coaching practice plans.

It is mandatory in the new pathway 2021-2025 to complete the PDP 1 course before completing the PDP 2 course.

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For a coach starting out in Grassroots football, what are the first steps that they should take? Firstly, they should ensure they are Garda Vetted and have completed the Safeguarding one workshop, then they should look to enter on to our Coach Education pathway.

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Clubs in Cork

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Carrigaline Utd Football For All

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TEN years on and the Football For All programme in Carrigaline continues to bring joy to so many young girls and boys.

The FFA programme was established in 2011, so as to enable access to team sport for children who may not ordinarily get a chance to play soccer.

From 10 players in 2011, FFA has since grown to 45 boys and girls with varying needs, including ADHD, dyslexia, dyspraxia, hearing impairment, cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome.

This programme offers soccer players with various challenges the opportunity to play and to train and to participate in regular competitions with other, similar clubs.

Recently, I caught up with one of the coaches who gives his time to help the children to pursue their dream of playing the sport they love.

Bryan McCarthy tells us the importance of the programme for these young stars.

"One of my sons had no outlet for playing soccer and I saw that he could play, and learn at his own pace, with the FFA," said McCarthy.

"From the moment he got his chance to train, he was hooked, which led me to become more involved. I started helping out with training about five years ago and soon became a coach.

"Then, two years ago, the FFA founding committee decided that new people should take over.

"Myself, John Kidney, and Maeve Harrington decided to take it on, and keep things going. We are now privileged to be running the FFA section within the Carrigaline club.

"We have always been greatly supported and facilitated by the club and have ongoing support from parents, who have told me that they can't wait to start training again."

Like all sporting organisations, the past 12 months have been a huge adjustment for the FFA.

"This has been sorely missed. It was a routine for many and something that many of us are craving to get back."

McCarthy and his committee are looking forward to the return of the programme and have lots of plans to keep the children busy.

"It will be great to get back on the pitch. Both parents and kids will welcome this, no doubt," McCarthy said.

"If Covid-19 rules are changed, we hope to have a summer camp in July. This is going to be organised in conjunction with FAI development officer, Nick Harrison. It is expected to have 20 available places.

"This will be our third year and each year it is about playing and learning football and having fun. Finally, we will always welcome a new member, wherever they are from, and regular training, hopefully, starts again on May 1."

There are eight FFA clubs in Cork, 15 in Munster, and 42 throughout the country.

"In normal years, we travel around Muster to participate in matches against these clubs.

"There is also an FAI 'All Ireland' competition. Teams are graded, so as to ensure all games are competitive, even though everyone gets a medal.

"We have three categories: A junior team, catering for six- to 10-year-olds; an intermediate team for 11-14, and a senior team, 15 to 18. In the near future, we hope to offer football for players above 18.

Carrigaline players ready for action at the Football for All blitz. Picture: Gavin Browne

"Our coaches are FAI-trained, garda-vetted, and have completed accredited child welfare and protection courses," McCarthy said.

"Some coaches have also been appointed and trained as First-Aiders.

"Many of our coaches are parents, who have a broad range of expertise in working with different challenges and volunteer their time to support the programme, which we very much appreciate," McCarthy said.

Carrigaline FC is a fantastic set-up, with top-class facilities, and a credit to all involved, especially the chairman, Willie Walsh, who takes pride in providing such facilities to so many people in the community.

Walsh is always quick to praise the many volunteers and sponsors, without whom there would not be such a great club.

The Football For All programme is a key part of the club and the same aims are hoped to be achieved by every team: For the children to enjoy playing soccer in a safe and fun environment.

"Ultimately, our aim is to make sure every child can play football in a fun and safe environment," Walsh said.

"We have fanatastic facilities and coaches to ensure this is the case.

"We, as coaches, are there to co-ordinate and develop opportunities for children with a disability, who want to play football, between the ages of six and 18, and enjoy the game of football.

"Training takes place every Saturday morning at Ballea Park. New players can try out for three sessions, before registering with the club. We would welcome any new players and we hope to return soon to do what we love most."

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Carrigaline club promote Football For All, where every player gets a chance

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TEN years on and the Football For All programme in Carrigaline continues to bring joy to so many young girls and boys. The FFA programme was established in 2011, so as to enable access to team sport for children who may not ordinarily get a chance to play soccer.

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Coach / Parent Education

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FAI Player Development Plan - Coach/Parent Education

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FAI Coach Education | Learner Centered Approach

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FAI Coach Education | Learner Centered Approach

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Active Community Inclusion Finalist 2021- Leeds AFC

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Active Community Inclusion Finalist 2021- Leeds AFC

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Cork Heroes Powerchair Football

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Co-Action Clonakilty with their new footballs courtesy of UEFA Grassroots week!

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Skibbereen AFC 'Football For All' players with coach Tony Walsh and their new footballs courtesy of UEFA Grassroots week.

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#norefnogame

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We all have a responsibility to make sure that the beautiful game is kept beautiful." - David Gallagher, Referee

No Ref. No Game. ⚽ #WeAreOne

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We all have a responsibility to make sure that the beautiful game is kept beautiful." - David Gallagher, Referee

No Ref. No Game. ⚽ #WeAreOne https://t.co/9YGKCaZP6M

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We all have a responsibility to make sure that the beautiful game is kept beautiful." - David Gallagher, Referee

No Ref. No Game. ⚽ #WeAreOne pic.twitter.com/9YGKCaZP6M
— Ireland Football ⚽️🇮🇪 (@IrelandFootball) November 27, 2021

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.metadata.attachment_props_source.data.text
We all have a responsibility to make sure that the beautiful game is kept beautiful." - David Gallagher, Referee

No Ref. No Game. ⚽ #WeAreOne https://t.co/9YGKCaZP6M

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.metadata.attachment_props.original_text
We all have a responsibility to make sure that the beautiful game is kept beautiful." - David Gallagher, Referee

No Ref. No Game. ⚽ #WeAreOne https://t.co/9YGKCaZP6M

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.metadata.attachment_props.text
We all have a responsibility to make sure that the beautiful game is kept beautiful." - David Gallagher, Referee

No Ref. No Game. ⚽ #WeAreOne

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Our Club Development Officer (Women & Girls)  coordinates participation and educational activities  around the city and county!  If your club wants support to develop opportunities in this space, please get in touch!

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Our Club Development Officer (Women & Girls)  coordinates participation and educational activities  around the city and county!  If your club wants support to develop opportunities in this space, please get in touch!

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Our Schools and Third Level Development Officer Alan Bennett will not only be overseeing our development programmes but planning a strategic approach to growing all aspects of football in Schools and Colleges from playing and coaching to refereeing and competitions. If your school would like to be involved don't hesitate to get in touch!

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Our Schools and Third Level Development Officer Alan Bennett will not only be overseeing our development programmes but planning a strategic approach to growing all aspects of football in Schools and Colleges from playing and coaching to refereeing and competitions. If your school would like to be involved don't hesitate to get in touch!

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The biggest competition in primary schools’ soccer in Ireland

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The FAI Cork Grassroots staff provides programmes, initiatives, and events that allow people, no matter what age or ability, to get involved in the game at the level that suits them best. Whether you are a young child wanting to get involved for the very first time or for someone who wants to take up refereeing, pathways exist to bring you through those initial steps.

Delivery is coordinated and managed by a range of staff from the FAI board and Senior Leadership Team in Abbotstown to Regional Managers, Programme Coordinators, Development Officers and Department Executives.

The list of programmes under the umbrella of the Grassroots Department are; Football for All, Club Development, Schools & Third Level, Referee Development, Women’s & Girls Football, Futsal & Recreational Football & Camps.

The FAI's Regional Team in Cork is currently made up of five full-time staff.

Three Development Officers, a Regional manager and a Performance coach

Regional Manager

Nick Harrison

nick.harrison@fai.ie

0860472051

Club Officer

Ray Claffey

Ray.claffey@fai.ie

0831930530

Schools & Colleges Officer

Cork City

Alan Bennett

Alan.bennett@fai.ie

0864401034

Club Officer (Women's & Girls)

Conor McKahey

conor.mckahey@fai.ie

0862042434

Regional Performance Coach

John Cotter

John.Cotter@fai.ie

0860787304

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2024 Quarter 1 Coach Development Courses can be found at the mycomet link below!

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2024 Quarter 1 Coach Development Courses can be found at the mycomet link below!

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We've detected that JavaScript is disabled in this browser. Please enable JavaScript or switch to a supported browser to continue using twitter.com. You can see a list of supported browsers in our Help Center.
Help Center

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RT @FAICork: Thank you @AlanBennettFAI Ray Claffey @CoughloDerek @Jamesscott89Com @cotts_john @GerMcDermott and the 75 volunteers from club…

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RT @FAICork: Thank you @AlanBennettFAI Ray Claffey @CoughloDerek @Jamesscott89Com @cotts_john @GerMcDermott and the 75 volunteers from club…

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Thank you @AlanBennettFAI Ray Claffey @CoughloDerek @Jamesscott89Com @cotts_john @GerMcDermott and the 75 volunteers from clubs in Cork for making last night’s Grassroots Conference such a success. The first of many! 👏👏👏 @FAIreland https://t.co/D00Md3J6M2

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Thank you @AlanBennettFAI Ray Claffey @CoughloDerek @Jamesscott89Com @cotts_john @GerMcDermott and the 75 volunteers from clubs in Cork for making last night’s Grassroots Conference such a success. The first of many! 👏👏👏 @FAIreland pic.twitter.com/D00Md3J6M2
— FAI Cork (@FAICork) November 21, 2023

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RT @FAICork: Thank you @AlanBennettFAI Ray Claffey @CoughloDerek @Jamesscott89Com @cotts_john @GerMcDermott and the 75 volunteers from club…

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.metadata.attachment_props_source.includes.tweets[].text
Thank you @AlanBennettFAI Ray Claffey @CoughloDerek @Jamesscott89Com @cotts_john @GerMcDermott and the 75 volunteers from clubs in Cork for making last night’s Grassroots Conference such a success. The first of many! 👏👏👏 @FAIreland https://t.co/D00Md3J6M2

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.metadata.attachment_props.original_text
RT @FAICork: Thank you @AlanBennettFAI Ray Claffey @CoughloDerek @Jamesscott89Com @cotts_john @GerMcDermott and the 75 volunteers from club…

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.metadata.attachment_props.text
RT @FAICork: Thank you @AlanBennettFAI Ray Claffey @CoughloDerek @Jamesscott89Com @cotts_john @GerMcDermott and the 75 volunteers from club…

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.metadata.attachment_props.referenced_tweets[].text
Thank you @AlanBennettFAI Ray Claffey @CoughloDerek @Jamesscott89Com @cotts_john @GerMcDermott and the 75 volunteers from clubs in Cork for making last night’s Grassroots Conference such a success. The first of many! 👏👏👏 @FAIreland https://t.co/D00Md3J6M2

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FAI Player Development Plan - Coach/Parent Education

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Walking Football Groups in cork - get involved!

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Walking Football Groups in cork - get involved!

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Clonakilty Men's Shed

Clonakilty RFC,

Clonakilty,

P85DR12.

Monday 2 pm

Contact: Chris Connor 0877810564

Cork City FC

Ringhmahon Rangers AFC,

Ringmahon Road,

Mahon,

T12PT63.

Wednesday 3 pm

Contact: Erika Ni Thuama 0868058773 / Danny Murphy 0838566840

Park Utd AFC

Brigown Road,

Brigown,

Mitchelstown,

P67KX02

Thursday 6 pm

Contact: Paudie Fitzgibbon 0862616195

Cork City FC

Bandon AFC,

Bandon Town Park,

Bandon,

P72V663.

Friday 3 pm

Contact: Erika Ni Thuama 0868058773 / Danny Murphy 0838566840

UCC

Mardyke Sports Ground,

University College Cork,

Mardyke Walk,

T12 N1FK.

Friday 6:30 pm

Contact: Christine O'Donovan 0872470344 / Neil Nash 0872042708

Youghal United FC

Youghal Utd

Ardrath Park, Youghal, Co Cork.

P36 HP27

Contact : Mossie 0894164558

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Online Referee Beginners Course – 16/17 October 2024 (7-10pm) - https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/26044051

Online Referee Beginners Course – 4/5 November 2024 (7-10pm) - https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/26044284

Online Referee Beginners Course – 26/27 November 2024 (7-10pm) - https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/26044428

For more information and to signup click https://www.fai.ie/play-and-participate/referees/become-referee/

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Football Facilities Database

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Sites and facilities | Football Association of Ireland

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Interested in running one of these programmes in your club or school?

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Interested in running one of these programmes in your club or school?

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Fill out your contact details and select the programmes you're interested in and someone will be in touch!

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FAI Cork Grassroots Programmes Expression of Interest

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FAI Cork Grassroots Programmes Expression of Interest

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Beginner Referee Courses in Cork this Summer!

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Beginner Referee Courses in Cork this Summer!

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Blarney United 19th July 2025      (10-4pm)

https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/35084691

Passage AFC   26th July 2025      (10-4pm)

https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/35085065

Turner’s Cross 9th August 2025  (10-4pm)

https://faiconnect.ie/mycomet/private/seminars/35085073