Speaking from Edinburgh, where Whelan is currently away with the Republic of Ireland Women's Under-17 team for their UEFA European Championships Elite Round qualifiers, the striker said she is "just so happy and honoured" to have gotten the award.

"I was just delighted when I heard I won. To me, it's for my family and my coaches, and just everyone who has been so supportive of me. The people around me put in a lot of work behind the scenes so that I can concentrate on playing and so for them, and me, it was brilliant getting it," said Whelan.

"I have always had great support behind me, but this last year, it has been huge. My family are great; they travel to games, and when you are away at elite tournaments and qualifiers, it really means a lot to have people there supporting you.

"When you have that you can just concentrate on playing as best you can and say to yourself that you're doing it for them, and for your country."

The 16-year-old, from Balbriggan in north county Dublin, pinpoints her Dad, Alan, as her biggest fan and says that she was particularly thinking of him when she found out she had been honoured at last night's awards which were broadcast live on RTÉ television.

Whelan said: "My Dad is my biggest fan - he tries to come everywhere to support me. He brings me to every training session when we're at home. And I love being early to training, so I usually have him there for around an hour and a half before we're due!"

"He travelled to Bosnia, Germany and Serbia over the last year or so, and he's coming here to Scotland this week."

The honour tops off a great period for Whelan who had a busy and important year in her young career in 2018.

Straight after turning 16 last August, the attacker signed for the senior team at Shelbourne and has also been called up to Colin Bell's senior women's side.

"My goals for the next few months are to try and get into the senior team again. And also for the next few months - starting now, here with this squad - I want to be qualifying for finals and getting as much training in as I can. I want to develop my game intelligence and just keep learning more and more. To do that I need to be training at the highest level possible."

"At this age, I think that moving between the squads is good for everyone. Obviously it's good for my game to be with the seniors, but it's also good for the rest of this team because I can bring back what I learn to this squad. So then everybody is progressing and improving and hopefully that shows in the games we have ahead of us here."

The Women's Under-17s will kick-off their Elite Round qualifiers against Norway on Wednesday (March 20) at 17:30 in Edinburgh.

UEFA Women's European Under-17 Championship - Elite Round
March 20: Republic of Ireland v Norway, National Performance Centre, Edinburgh, KO 17:30
March 23: Germany v Republic of Ireland, National Performance Centre, Edinburgh, KO 12:00
March 26: Scotland v Republic of Ireland, Ainslie Park, Edinburgh, KO 14:30

For the first time since 2016, neither University College Cork or University College Dublin will contest the senior Third Level finale as both sides exited the competition in the semi-finals.

IT Carlow were part of that 2016 final when they defeated Colaiste Stiofain Naofa 2-1 in Dublin for their third success in the competition. It is a much-changed Carlow team from their last success with captain Kieran McDaid the sole survivor from the starting eleven that defeated the Cork side.

It has been two years of frustration for Tom Elmes side as they were eliminated at the Quarter Final stage two seasons ago by a last-minute DCU penalty and were undone by more penalty drama last season as they came out at the wrong end of a shootout with UCC in the Semi-Final.

The experience of the past two seasons has appeared to be in their favour as they have shown maturity in handling the strength and power of the likes of Maynooth University and UCC. They appeared to be heading out against Maynooth in the Quarter Finals as they fell 3-1 behind before an Alan O’Sullivan-led comeback brought them into extra time before emerging as victors after penalties. They will also be buoyed by their recent CFAI Colleges Plate success over the NCI.

There are certainly no survivors from UL’s last league winning team with their sole success coming ten years ago when they lifted the 2008/09 title against Letterkenny IT in Galway. John Tierney scored twice for the Munster side in the 3-1 win with Conor Molan as Manager. Molan had taken over only a couple of weeks beforehand when long-time coach Trevor Lovell left for a coaching position in South Africa.

The closest that UL have come to achieving their second success in the decade since was when they were defeated 3-2 by Colaiste Stiofain Naofa in the 2015/16 semi-finals with them failing to progress past the group stages on four of the nine occasions.

Limerick have definitely been a much more difficult threat to contain in this season’s competitions as they have yet to be beaten in ninety minutes this season, including a 4-2 victory over IT Carlow in the early stages of the league. Fatigue denied them a first Collingwood Cup, however without the implication of having played twice in the two previous days, they showed great energy to steamroll IT Sligo in Extra Time in the Quarter Finals and held their nerve to eliminate the holders UCD on penalties.

RUSTLERS CUFL Premier Division Final
IT Carlow v University of Limerick
Athlone Town Stadium
Tuesday 19th March 7pm

The League which was supported by FAI County Development Officer Denis Hynes and also assisted by volunteers from the local club Coole FC, saw four Teams, close to 30 players compete for the overall title. 

Eventually, after three weeks of very skilful and exciting Futsal, the Finals night saw EuroBarcelona Gort face Gort United FC.   

The Final lived up to its status as Gort United FC took an early 2 -0 lead against the favourites, however as is the nature of the fact paced, goals laden game of Futsal, Eurobarcelona eventually equalised early in the second half and then proceeded to display their full array of Futsal Skills and Samba Style as they ran out convincing 6 -3 winners to claim the title. 

The Adult Futsal League  was also funded and supported by the FAI Intercultural Programme and through AMIF Funding, and proved very popular for the North Clare, South Galway Region. 

The League was run in a similar format to other Adult Futsal Leagues held in Galway, Offaly, and Limerick City all co-ordinated and delivered by the network of FAI Development Officers.
 

The League which was supported by FAI County Development Officer Denis Hynes and also assisted by volunteers from the local club Coole FC, saw four Teams, close to 30 players compete for the overall title. 

Eventually, after three weeks of very skilful and exciting Futsal, the Finals night saw EuroBarcelona Gort face Gort United FC.   

The Final lived up to its status as Gort United FC took an early 2 -0 lead against the favourites, however as is the nature of the fact paced, goals laden game of Futsal, Eurobarcelona eventually equalised early in the second half and then proceeded to display their full array of Futsal Skills and Samba Style as they ran out convincing 6 -3 winners to claim the title. 

The Adult Futsal League  was also funded and supported by the FAI Intercultural Programme and through AMIF Funding, and proved very popular for the North Clare, South Galway Region. 

The League was run in a similar format to other Adult Futsal Leagues held in Galway, Offaly, and Limerick City all co-ordinated and delivered by the network of FAI Development Officers.
 

Southampton striker Long had hoped to make a big impression under new manager Mick McCarthy but a groin injury means that he will miss the UEFA EURO 2020 qualifiers against Gibraltar and Georgia.

O'Brien, who won the 'Three' International Goal of the Year at last Sunday's '3' FAI International Awards, will link up with the squad for training on Wednesday morning.

On Tuesday, the Ireland players used the artificial pitch at the FAI National Training Centre to prepare for the qualifier away to Gibraltar, who play on artifical surface at their Victoria Stadium.

Midfielder Conor Hourihane is due to meet up with the squad following the birth of his daughter.

Republic of Ireland Squad
Goalkeepers: Darren Randolph (Middlesbrough), Keiren Westwood (Sheffield Wednesday), Mark Travers (Bournemouth)
Defenders: Seamus Coleman (Everton), Matt Doherty (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Richard Keogh (Derby County), John Egan (Sheffield United), Shane Duffy (Brighton & Hove Albion), Kevin Long (Burnley), Enda Stevens (Sheffield United)
Midfielders: Alan Judge (Ipswich Town), Jeff Hendrick (Burnley), Conor Hourihane (Aston Villa), Harry Arter (Cardiff City*), Glenn Whelan (Aston Villa), Robbie Brady (Burnley), Josh Cullen (Charlton Athletic*), Jack Byrne (Shamrock Rovers), James McClean (Stoke City)
Forwards: Aiden O'Brien (Millwall), Sean Maguire (Preston North End), David McGoldrick (Sheffield United), James Collins (Luton Town)

*Indicates player is on loan 

EURO 2020 Qualifiers
March 23: Gibraltar v Republic of Ireland
March 26: Republic of Ireland v Georgia
June 7: Denmark v Republic of Ireland
June 10: Republic of Ireland v Gibraltar
September 5: Republic of Ireland v Switzerland
October 12: Georgia v Republic of Ireland
October 15: Switzerland v Republic of Ireland
November 18: Republic of Ireland v Denmark 

Tickets for Ireland v Georgia at Aviva Stadium on March 26 are on sale now. Click here to secure tickets

All players are fit and ready for selection for the game against Norway at the National Performance Centre in Edinburgh, which kicks off at 17:30.

Speaking after Tuesday's training session at the match venue, Bell said it's important that all squad members are in good shape and ready and willing to play their part in the three games coming up.

"We've had a few days training and everybody's fit for selection, which is good. These three games are going to be tough," said Bell, as his team will take on Norway, Germany and Scotland.

"The facility is really, really good, but it's a massive pitch. The girls are going to have to play really well in all three games because we're playing against three really good teams; that is where we're going to need strength in depth in the squad. Everybody has to be ready to do their part."

Cork City defender Zara Foley is back in the squad after a recent foot injury and has taken full part in training since coming back into the group.

Wednesday's game takes place indoors at the National Performance Centre and Bell explained that he is happy with the venue for the tie.

He said: "Today was the first time for us in the hall, which was really good - it's a great facility. It gave us a chance to get used to that environment again. I think the girls reacted well, they were quite excited actually to be playing in there."

Bell also described how the players are constantly developing and he expects them to bring what they have learned from the recent Iceland camp into this competition.

"It's always quite an intensive time. We only have a few days to prepare and then you have the three matches coming up. After the first game, you have recovery and then a bit of time to prepare before you're around to the next game, so it can be difficult. We had a camp in Iceland before the home-based sessions, and so we need to use the experience that we've gained together and put it into the first game against Norway," said Bell.

Squad captain Eabha O'Mahony is feeling upbeat about the game against Norway and says the team know just what they have to do.

"We're feeling confident ahead of the game. Training went very well today, and I think we all have a good sense of what is needed from us. Our communication has improved a lot and I think if we stay organised and work together as a team tomorrow, we've a great chance," said O'Mahony.

The Cork City defender also described how beneficial the time they have spent together recently has been for the young squad.

O'Mahony said: "We had a great training session today and we're all improving by the day. We feel we can really advance from here - we're constantly improving and progressing. We know that we are going to be playing against talented players and so we need to combat that with our own strengths."

Republic of Ireland WU17 squad
Goalkeepers: Courtney Maguire (Shelbourne), Maeve Williams (Wexford Youths)
Defenders: Therese Kinnevey (Galway Women's), Eabha O'Mahony (Cork City), Ellie Ferguson (Shelbourne), Shauna Brennan (Galway Women's), Mia Dodd (Shelbourne), Zara Foley (Cork City)
Midfielders: Rebecca Cooke (Shelbourne), Aoibheann Clancy (Limerick), Orla Prendergast (Peamount United), Della Doherty (Peamount United), Erin McLaughlin (Sea Rovers FC), Taylor White (Shelbourne)
Forwards: Lauren Egbuloniu (Cork City), Sophie Liston (Limerick), Emily Whelan (Shelbourne), Jessica Ziu (Shelbourne), Blessing Kingsley (Wexford Youths), Emily Kraft (FFC Frankfurt)

UEFA Women's European Under-17 Championship - Elite Round
March 20: Republic of Ireland v Norway, National Performance Centre, Edinburgh, KO 17:30
March 23: Germany v Republic of Ireland, National Performance Centre, Edinburgh, KO 12:00
March 26: Scotland v Republic of Ireland, Ainslie Park, Edinburgh, KO 14:30

Mikey Scott’s second half header was the difference between the sides in a fiercely contested game. The success sees Blanchardstown promoted to the Premier Division for the 2019/20 season.

The game burst into life on eighteen minutes when Rob Manley headed against the crossbar. As Tallaght tried to clear their lines, George Mukete was brought down on the edge of the area. Scott stepped up for Blanchardstown but Darragh Gogan stood tall and blocked Scott’s weak attempt.

It was Blanchardstown that had the best of the chances throughout the game with Tallaght defender Daniel Ridge having to make a last-ditch block as Rob Manley looked destined to score just before half-time.

Despite Blanchardstown’s pressure, they were dealt a blow when midfielder Eoghan Morgan received a second yellow card for a late challenge on Sean Quinn just minutes into the second half.

The breakthrough finally came with seventeen minutes to go when Eric Abulu burst down the left-hand side and whipped an inch-perfect cross for Scott to head home from six yards out.

Tallaght threw everything at Blanch in the final few moments with Colin McCabe having to prevent Quinn from firing home from thirty yards with defenders Andy McKenna and Dan O’Donovan defending relentlessly as Tallaght kept pressing. The rear-guard held out and the trophy is going to Dublin 15.

Blanchardstown: McCabe, O’Riordan (Byrne 77), Abulu, McKenna, O’Donovan, Morgan, Manley (Coyne 80), Hollywood (Murray 90), Scott, Mukete (Brazil 52), Ball (Keogh 82)

Tallaght: Gogan, Maher (Canty 71), Gilson (Dunne 83), Towers, Ridge, Lovic (Murphy 83), Quinn, McPhillips, Ogaga (Sofola 70), Andre, Sanusi

A Shane Barnes brace and Danny Doyle’s opener sealed a fourth success in the competition for IT Carlow and adds to their CFAI Colleges Plate success this season. 

Head Coach Tom Elmes also became the first person to win the Premier Division as a player and coach, following his own success with Carlow in 2012.

It was an action-packed game throughout and Carlow hit the ground running with Doyle heading home Dean Kelly’s cross after just 69 seconds of play.

UL eventually settled into the game and forced their own chances with Killian Hayes bringing Marcin Kowalczyk into action with a smart stop at his near post.

Carlow doubled their lead seven minutes before half-time when Ian Fletcher failed to deal with a long ball over the top and Barnes swooped in and lifted the ball over the on-rushing Shane McCormack and knocked the ball into an empty net.

The second half followed the same script and it as end-to-end ten minutes into the half when McCormack made a brilliant double save from Doyle and Barnes before Limerick broke and it was Kowalczyk’s turn to deny Hayes again.

UL’s Harding Cup hero Ed O’Dwyer instilled some belief in his side with twelve minutes remaining when he headed home Alan Murphy’s cross at the back post.

That belief was knocked back just moments later when Barnes ran on to a through ball from Mark Birrane and cooly finished past McCormack to send the entire Carlow team and bench hurtling down to their goalscorer.

A crazy couple of minutes had another layer added to it when sixteen seconds after the restart from Barnes goal, the ball was in IT Carlow’s net when Kowalczyk failed to deal with Adam Foley’s cross and Conor Whittle put the ball into the net to set up an electric final few moments.

Carlow, however, imposed their maturity upon a young Limerick side and managed to see the closing minutes out and spark scenes of jubilation.

IT Carlow: Kowalczyk, O’Reilly, Coleman, Manley, Murphy (McCarthy 87), McDaid (Birrane 60), McCartan, Kelly, Doyle, Barnes (Nolan 90), Hurley

UL: McCormack, Doherty, Madigan (Whittle HT), Fletcher, McCallion, Lynch, Hayes (Patterson 82), O’Dwyer, O’Connell (Foley HT), Cocerhan (McSweeney 58), Murphy (Kelly 85).

Two goals each from Jonathan Afolabi and Will Smallbone, along with a Romanian own-goal gave Tom Mohan’s side a valuable three points and a healthy goal difference, in a group where only one team qualifies for this summer’s Finals in Armenia.

Mohan’s side started the game fantastically, with both Afolabi and Smallbone finding the back of the new inside the opening 11-minutes.

From there it was all one-way traffic with the duo scoring again early in the second-half either side of an own-goal from Romanian winger Claudiu Petrila.

With 20-minutes left to go, Brian Maher saved a penalty from Romania’s Vladimir Screciu after Raoul Baicu was fouled in the box, to ensure Ireland finished the game with a clean sheet.

Speaking after the game, Mohan was delighted to get the win, and start the Elite Round in an emphatic manner.

"The team did very well today. We were clinical with our chances early on. It was a very mature performance from the team in both halves", Mohan revealed.

"Romania weren't as easy opponents as the 5-0 scoreline suggests. They were very difficult to play against"

The Under-19s return to action on Saturday, with a match against Azerbaijan at 9am, and Mohan is expecting a tough clash.

"We have to park our own game now and focus on Azerbaijan. It's a big game for us. We can build on today's performance, but there are areas to improve in."

Republic of Ireland: Brian Maher; Andy Lyons (Tom Gaston 84), Oisin McEntee, Jack James (Mark McGuinness 80), Kameron Ledwidge; Jason Knight, Will Smallbone (Richard O’Farrell 71), Aaron Bolger (capt); Ali Reghba (Luca Connell 71), Jonathan Afolabi, Will Ferry (Tyreik Wright 80)

Romania: Andrei Cristea; Andrei-Marius Rus (Antonio Sefer 32), Vladimir Screciu, Marco Ehmann, Sorin Serban (Rares Ispas 58); Raoul Baicu (Ovidiu Horsia 79), Radu Chiriac, Antonio Manolache (capt) (Alexandru Tirlea 32), Claudiu Petrila; Valentin Mihăilă, Leonardo Mitruscsak (Andrei Banyoi 58)

Referee: Mads-Kristoffer Kristoffersen (DEN)

The draw, which was performed by former Republic of Ireland international Keith Fahey and FAI Vice President Noel Fitzroy, was performed at FAI HQ, with representatives from the clubs in attendance. 

Fahey was part of the St. Patrick's Athletic side which lifted the trophy in 2014 and also played for Bluebell United in the FAI Cup in 2017, in victories over Sheriff YC and Cabinteely. 

20 clubs were in the qualifying round draw, 16 intermediate clubs and four junior clubs; Ashling Annacotty, Glengad United, Regional United and St. Michael’s. Four teams, Cobh Wanderers, Crumlin United, Letterkenny Rovers and Killester Donnycarney, received a bye into the first round of the competition. 

The 2019 FAI Cup qualifying round draw in full:-

Glebe North v Midleton 
Lucan United v Aisling Annacotty
St. Michael's v Regional United
Newtown Rangers v Avondale United
Glengad United v Home Farm
UCC v Malahide United
Maynooth University Town v Rockmount 
St. Mochta's v Collinstown

Byes: Cobh Wanderers, Crumlin United, Letterkenny Rovers, Killester Donnycarney.

All ties set to be played the week ending Sunday, April 21. 

The Elite Round qualifying game ended in a 1-1 draw at the National Performance Centre in Edinburgh.

Rebecca Cooke gave Ireland the lead with 70 minutes on the clock when she connected with a loose ball after a Jessica Ziu corner kick.

However, Norway were back in the game pretty much straight away when they converted a penalty just two minutes later.

Joshualyn Favour Revees scored from the spot after the referee ajudged that her team-mate, Siri Oline Berg-Johansen was taken down in the box.

Speaking after the game, Head Coach Colin Bell said: "I think we deserved to win the game. We had some phases when we were really, really good, but then in some phases we switched off a bit. That's a bit of a characteristic of football at this age group. One minute you're ahead in the game and the next something dramatic and unpredictable happens.

"But overall the effort was excellent and we had some very good periods where we played some really good football. It was a very intensive game and it shows that at this level if you make one mistake or switch off for a second you more than likely will get punished. That was unfortunate, but I think there were more positives than negative in the game.

"We didn't conceed many chances in open play, their chances were mainly from set-pieces. So there were definitely encouraging signs and we had a fair few efforts ourselves. We need to be more composed in the box in those decisive moments. The goal came from a well worked corner and that shows what we can do."

The team are next in action again on Saturday when they take on Germany at the National Performance Centre, which kicks off at 12pm.

Republic of Ireland: Courtney Maguire; Therese Kinnevey, Shauna Brennan, Eabha O'Mahony, Orla Prendergast, Emily Whelan, Aoibheann Clancy, Emily Kraft (Blessing Kingsley 69), Jessica Ziu, Rebecca Cooke, Zara Foley.

Norway: Margaux Batt Laegreid; Andrea Sivertsen Broholm, Nora Marie Egenes, Mille Aune, Thea Loennecken (Siri Oline Berg-Johansen 71), Laura Gashi (Mille Dalen 87), Joshualyn Favour Revees, Anette Jensen (Thale Listerud 46), Emilie Marie Joramo, Oda Amland Edvartsen (Gina Øgegaard 87), Victoria Thorp Haugen.

Referee: Andromachi Tsiofliki (Greece).

Jack Doherty headed home the match winner eight minutes from time to ensure Martin Cavanagh’s crew a wonderful two in-a-row in Home Farm FC against a gallant Midleton CBS.

This was the Donegal School’s third title in four years while Midleton CBS were experiencing their first outing at National Cup level.

Chris Melnyk’s side were coming into this contest as underdogs but their pedigree this season had been first class so they had nothing to fear as proceedings got underway.

Carndonagh enjoyed the better chances in the first forty five with Captain Kieran Farren, Mikey Friel and Luke Rudden craving out some great opportunities but Arthur Nganou was in superb form early on to deny the trio.

Matthew O’Reilly was unlucky on the quarter hour mark as he dragged the ball just wide of the keepers left post. As well as Joe Stack forcing O’Donnell into an exceptional save just before the break to ensure the stalemate. 

It was playmaker Stack that tested the Carn keeper following the restart and again the athletic Padraig O’Donnell sprung into action to see the ball save from a brilliant free-kick 25 yards out.

The imposing Loic Nguefang had a few chances from distance but again O’Donnell did enough to clear the danger.

Mikey Friel and Luke Rudden combined well down the left flank for the latter to see his strike sail wide of the mark just after the hour mark.

It looked like extra time was on the cards as the contest surprisingly remained goalless. 

However, it was the illustrious Jack Doherty that popped up at the end of a Mikey Friel cross to see his glancing header hit the bottom corner to deceive the hardworking Nganoubetween the posts.

Midleton through men forward at every opportunity and created half chances from Stack, O’Reilly and Nguefang but their attempts from distance couldn’t trouble the Carndonagh netminder as the Ulster stars held on for the slenderest of victories in a wonderful show piece. 

Pearse McCarron saw his last gasp effort hit the post as three minutes of additional time was drawing to a close. 

A masterful display from both teams in Whitehall with a solitary goal the only difference between the sides. 

Carndonagh will enjoy this title win, with Captain Kieran Farren attributing their victory to the late Liam Monagle who sadly passed away last September. A teacher and past pupil of Carndonagh Community School who gave so much of his time to schools football over the years and will be fondly remembered for his endeavours. 

CARNDONAGH COMMUNITY SCHOOL | Padraig O'Donnell, Lee McLaughlin, Dónal Doherty, Jake Harkin, Conor O'Donnell, Kieran Farren (Capt.), Mikey Friel, Jack Doherty, Luke Rudden, Corey McBride, Fionn McClure. 

SUBS USED | Nathan Logue for D Doherty (57), Pearse McCarron for Rudden (85).

SUBS NOT USED | Jonathan Toye, Eoin McLaughlin, Michael Doran, Jack McLaughlin, Gavin McDaid, Alex McFadden, Daniel McCallion, Damien Duffy, Adam McLaughlin

TEACHER | Martin Cavanagh ASSISTANTS | Liam Mooney, Callum Harley, Paddy Doherty

MIDLETON CBS | Arthur Nganou (Capt.), Dylan O'Halloran, Max Ahern, Shane O'Riordan, Jamie Collins, Joe Stack, Neil Cunningham, Fionn Duggan, Loic Nguefang, Matthew O'Reilly, Charlie Whalley. 

SUB USED | Jamie O'Hanlon for Cunningham (80).

SUBS NOT USED | Jack Fitzgerald, Adam Meade, Sam O’Reilly, Diarmuid Byrne, Robbie Kinane, Mark Daly, Matthew Cody, Griffin Hurley, Dylan O’Keefe, Eoghan Martin, Robbie Treacy, Jason Hankard, Jack Knowles, Quadri Aminu, Ciaran Evans, Seán Devaney, Christophe Riff, Shane Kelleher, Eoin Healy, Abdul Bakinson

TEACHERS | Christopher Melnyk, James Walsh, David Twomey

REFEREE | Derek Carey (Dublin)

It is Sligo’s fourth success in the competition which they last won in 2015. IT Carlow have won the competition on three consecutive occasions since then and were unluckily relegated to runners-up on this occasion after the result of their final game, coincidentally against the eventual winners.

There was an excellent standard playing within the competition, which included the CUFL Women’s Futsal Plate with Senior Internationals Niamh Farrelly, Aislinn Meaney and Player of the Tournament Amy Boyle-Carr all representing their respective colleges at the National Finals.

With four teams in each competition, each team played against each other in a series of games with the winners decided by final group positions. Sligo got off to the best possible start when they defeated DCU 6-2 in their opening game with Rachel Kearns grabbing a brace. They would repeat that scoreline in their second game with Kearns again scoring twice and Boyle-Carr and Ella McLaughlin also netting twice.

IT Carlow began their attempt to defend their crown with an economical 2-1 win over TU Dublin City Campus with Bronagh Kane and Tamara O’Connor getting on the scoresheet. They would show their ruthlessness in the second game as they put 5 past DCU including a double from Lauren Dwyer.

Both teams entered the last game against each other with Sligo knowing that a draw would be in their favour. However, Carlow got off to a good start when Dwyer would score her third of the day. Boyle-Carr would soon bring matters level before Kane gave Carlow the advantage going into half-time. Boyle-Carr would have the last laugh of the day though when she equalised for Sligo and Carlow could not force through the required goal to retain the cup.

In the Plate competition, TU Dublin Blanchardstown would find success to add to their Men’s football success the previous day. Player of the Tournament Eleanor Ryan-Doyle was unstoppable, scoring nine of Blanchardstown’s seventeen goals in three games. In their final game against Trinity College, who had their own aspirations of success, Blanchardstown took a two goal lead before Cliodhna Ni She and Aoife Robinson brought the game level, however Blanchardstown would pull away again and would not be caught in the race to lift the silverware.

Results
RUSTLERS CUFL Women’s Futsal Cup
DCU 2-6 IT Sligo
IT Carlow 2-1 TU Dublin City 1
IT Carlow 5-1 DCU
TU Dublin City Campus 2-6 IT Sligo
IT Carlow 2-2 IT Sligo
TU Dublin 2-8 DCU

RUSTLERS CUFL Women’s Futsal Plate
NUI Galway 3-9 TU Dublin Blanchardstown
Trinity 3-2 Cork IT
Trinity 7-5 NUI Galway
Cork IT 3-4 TU Dublin Blanchardstown
TU Dublin Blanchardstown 4-2 Trinity College Dublin
NUI Galway 4-5 Cork IT

The Shebourne player is away with Colin Bell's Women's Under-17s squad at the UEFA European Championships Elite Round qualifiers in Scotland - where they drew 1-1 with Norway on Wednesday - and was having some down time with her team-mates when the honour was revealed.

Ziu said: "The whole squad were having a games night, and while we were playing a card game, I was checking Twitter to see what was going on at the awards. And then I saw my picture going up and all the girls were saying congratulations and well done to both me and Emily [Whelan].

"I think it is a proud moment for me and my family but none of it would be possible without all the management that I had last year. And also, I really had my family and my friends pushing me on. Especially my parents, because they're the ones that get me to football and home. They make my food - they just do everything they can for me. So if it wasn't for them, and the management, I wouldn't have been able to get where I am.

"My brother, my mam and a close friend of ours went to the awards because my dad was working. My mam also recorded the awards so she sent me the little video of it being announced.

"It was great for them to go, but I'm just glad to be here and be part of this squad. All the girls are getting on really well and we're all interacting and getting to know each other better. Playing-wise, I think we're looking very strong and sharp. There are things we can still work on but as Colin says, hard work always pays off. And being there for each other and supporting each other will be a big part of us doing well too."

The 16-year-old, from Finglas in Dublin, has also worked her way into a place in Bell's Women's Senior team and has her sights firmly set on doing the best she can to keep that up.

"My main goal is to stay in Colin's senior squad. I just want to keep doing the hard work and keep on progressing. And at home, my goal is to win every trophy going with Shels. I know that will all take hard work, but I'm well up for that."

UEFA Women's European Under-17 Championship - Elite Round
March 23: Germany v Republic of Ireland, National Performance Centre, Edinburgh, KO 12:00
March 26: Scotland v Republic of Ireland, Ainslie Park, Edinburgh, KO 14:30

Thirty-four legends who have marked the history of the UEFA European Football Championship were represented by UEFA EURO ’92 winner Peter Schmeichel, UEFA EURO 2000 winner David Trezeguet and UEFA EURO 2004 finalist Luís Figo at a kick-off event at the House of European Football in Nyon, Switzerland, after which the Henri Delaunay Trophy balloon took flight for a unique voyage across Europe.

“I am proud that EURO legends such as Peter Schmeichel, David Trezeguet and Luís Figo are actively involved in promoting 60 years of the UEFA European Football Championship,” said UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin. “As EURO finalists, they have all contributed to creating many of the most iconic memories in the history of this great competition, and we look forward to their involvement in supporting UEFA EURO 2020 – an event that will be much closer to football fans than ever before.” 

“I am delighted to be part of such of an exclusive set of ambassadors,” said former France international striker David Trezeguet, whose ‘golden goal’ in extra-time in the final against Italy gave his country the UEFA EURO 2000 title, “especially as this will be the biggest EURO ever. Eight capital cities, and 11 of the 12 venues with capacities in excess of 50,000, tells you that the EURO has never before been hosted on this scale, and I expect that each of the host cities will bring their own local character to what is a global event. For me, there is much more to UEFA EURO 2020 than football. It will be a true celebration across 12 great venues, and a fitting way to celebrate the 60 years of this great competition.” 

“Winning EURO ’92 really put Danish football on the map,” admitted former Denmark international goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel, who played a crucial role in his country’s remarkable success after Denmark had received a late call-up to take part in the finals. “Everything came together for us in 1992 in Sweden, and now it is the turn of the current generation of Danish players. These footballers, like players in eleven other countries across Europe, potentially have the chance to play in the EURO finals in front of their home fans next year. Although they still need to qualify, this opportunity is a great incentive and a great honour for them – but more than that, the format of the competition will allow many fans to have the EURO at their doorstep in 2020. This is a chance not to be missed.”

The road to UEFA EURO 2020 begins with the European Qualifiers, which kick-off on Thursday 21 March 2019. For the first time, all 55 UEFA member associations will participate in the qualifying competition, as no team is guaranteed their place in the 24-team finals, which take place from Friday 12 June to Sunday 12 July 2020. The 12 UEFA EURO 2020 host cities are: Amsterdam, Baku, Bilbao, Bucharest, Budapest, Copenhagen, Dublin, Glasgow, London, Munich, Rome and Saint Petersburg.

UEFA EURO 2020 ambassadors squad (21 March 2019) 

CZE: Karel Poborský EURO ’96 finalist
CZE: Vladimír Šmicer EURO ’96 finalist
DEN: Brian Laudrup EURO ’92 winner
DEN: Peter Schmeichel EURO ’92 winner
ENG: Steve McManaman EURO ’96 semi-finalist
ENG: Michael Owen EURO 2004 quarter-finalist
ENG: Alan Shearer EURO ’96 semi-finalist
ESP: Xabi Alonso EURO 2008 & 2012 winner 
ESP: Gaizka Mendieta EURO 2000 quarter-finalist
ESP: Carles Puyol EURO 2008 winner
ESP: Xavi Hernández EURO 2008 & 2012 winner
FRA: Marcel Desailly EURO 2000 winner
FRA: Youri Djorkaeff EURO 2000 winner
FRA: Thierry Henry EURO 2000 winner
FRA: Christian Karembeu EURO 2000 winner
FRA: Robert Pirès EURO 2000 winner
FRA: David Trezeguet EURO 2000 winner
GER: Jürgen Klinsmann EURO ’96 winner
GER: Lothar Matthäus EURO ’80 winner
GRE: Angelos Charisteas EURO 2004 winner
GRE: Antonios Nikopolidis EURO 2004 winner
ITA: Alessandro Del Piero EURO 2000 finalist
ITA: Gianluca Zambrotta EURO 2000 finalist
NED: Ruud Gullit EURO ‘88 winner
NED: Patrick Kluivert EURO 2000 & UEFA EURO 2004 semi-finalist
NED: Clarence Seedorf EURO 2000 & UEFA EURO 2004 semi-finalist
POR: Vitor Baía EURO 2000 semi-finalist
POR: Ricardo Carvalho EURO 2016 winner
POR: Deco EURO 2004 finalist
POR: Luís Figo EURO 2004 finalist
POR: Nuno Gomes EURO 2004 finalist
POR: Maniche EURO 2004 finalist
RUS: Andrey Arshavin EURO 2008 semi-finalist
SWE: Henrik Larsson EURO 2004 quarter-finalist

It was the first game in charge for new Under-18s Head Coach Andy Reid, as the team prepare for back-to-back games in the Turkish capital.

The home side scored three goals in the space of 15 first-half minutes, including an Irish own goal to take a 3-0 lead into the break.

Andy Reid’s side showed resilience in the second half, and were unlucky not to score, but Turkey scored their fourth, to win 4-0.

Speaking after the match, Head Coach Andy Reid said there is space to improve ahead of Saturday’s second game.

“Any Ireland team I played for at any level have never given up. No team that I’m in charge of ever will either. It was important we went out in the second half, and showed some of the steel we got”, Reid revealed.

“It gives us a lot of hope for Saturday. The lads know they can compete at this level.”

The team play Turkey in the second game on Saturday morning in Istanbul.

Turkey: Arda Akbulut; Kerem Kalafat, Atakan Gunduz (capt), Fatih Tultak, Ridvan Yilmaz; Guney Gencel, Taha Tunc, Oguzhan Akgun, Muhammed Gumuskaya, Burak Yasin Yesilay; Muhammet Arslantas

Republic of Ireland: Brian Maher; Max Murphy, Eiran Cashin (Andrew Spain 63), Shadrach Ogie (Ray O’Sullivan 46), Reece Staunton (Ross Tierney 81); Barry Coffey (capt), Adam O’Reilly (Sean Brennan 46), Louie Watson (Jaden Charles 75); George Nunn (Donal Higgins 46), Ryan Cassidy, Callum Thompson

In excess of 150 camps and other activities will take place throughout the country between April 15-26.

Aviva have worked with the FAI to help to double the amount of spaces available nationwide, and for the first time, it is completely free to take part. This year’s festival format will incorporate Football Camps where participants will receive a limited-edition Aviva Soccer Sisters Jersey, and an official FAI Aviva Soccer Sisters completion certificate. In addition, many areas will see Football blitzes delivered with the emphasis on the non-competitive element of football. 

Finally, increased participation numbers will mean that more volunteers will be needed to help to facilitate the game, and make sure that girls are playing in a safe and fun environment. Free volunteer and coaching workshops will also be rolled out in selected venues as part of the festival for parents to get involved. 

All participating clubs will be in with a chance to win a place at the Aviva Soccer Sisters Dream Camp, which will take place at Aviva Stadium on May 29, where players will get the opportunity to play on the same field as their national heroes. Parents and coaches will be invited to nominate their clubs for a dream day out in the stadium. Details will be announced via Aviva’s social channels in the coming weeks.

Republic of Ireland women’s international players Niamh Farrelly and Isibeal Atkinson were on hand in Aviva Stadium to launch the Festival today, along with TV Broadcaster, Cook and Columnist Yvonne Connolly. Yvonne, who has always had a keen interest in sports, will be joining her daughter Ali Keating and getting involved at their local camp in Malahide this Easter. 

Sue Ronan, Head of Women’s Football with the FAI, said; “The Aviva Soccer Sisters Camps have played a significant part in the growth of our game over the past number of years.  The camps provide young girls with the opportunity to play in a fun, safe environment, something that is very important at that age and which helps to nurture a love for the game.  This year we aim to attract around 6,000 girls to the camps, with many going on to join their local club and becoming the future of women’s football in Ireland.”

Brian O’Neill, Head of Communications, Brand and Sponsorship, Aviva Ireland, said; “Aviva is proud to be involved with the FAI Soccer Sisters. We are committed to get more girls involved in sport at a young age and have worked with the FAI to make soccer more accessible to everyone. With the introduction of free places on camps for both girls and parents this year, we hope to bring the sport to a brand new audience. We are delighted to have Niamh, Isibeal and Yvonne here today, which shows that no matter what your level of exposure is to the game, you are welcome to participate.” 

The camps, blitzes and coaching workshops will run on various dates and locations throughout Ireland during the Easter school break. To find out more about Aviva Soccer Sisters and how to sign up for one of the Easter Football Festivals, log on to www.soccersisters.ie.

The renowned FAI-ETB Player Development programme enables participants to train full time while also availing of a sport themed education course accredited at QQI level 5. The programme enables young players to achieve their potential and in many cases, to develop a career in professional football. It also prepares participants for a career in the sports and leisure industry as well as encouraging them to improve their level of education and reach their potential in this regard, thus enhancing their job prospects and opportunities. Trainees may also receive a weekly training allowance for the duration of the 1-year programme.

The courses currently take place in venues in Clondalkin, Cabra and Irishtown in Dublin, Blarney, Carrigaline and Ringmahon in Cork, Limerick, Castlebar, Dundalk and Waterford. 

Player development has been a hugely successful feature of the courses with more than 100 trainees progressing into the SSE Airtricity League in recent years. Course graduates have also progressed to careers in the Premier League where players such as Kevin Long and Matt Doherty are making a big impression this season with Burnley and Wolverhampton Wanderers respectively.

Enda Stevens who is a graduate of the course in Cabra is also having a spectacular season at EFL Championship high fliers Sheffield United and they are among a significant number of course graduates playing professionally in the UK and beyond. All three also feature in Mick McCarthy’s first Republic of Ireland squad for the Euro 2020 campaign.

Both Matt and Enda expressed their appreciation of the opportunity provided by the FAI / ETB Player Development courses which were a significant stepping stone in their progression to the professional game. Helping to launch the new programme for 2019-20 in Dublin this week, they were full of praise for the FAI-ETB programme;

"The opportunity to train full time on the FAI-ETB course was great and really helpful. The coaches who are all from a professional background themselves gave us a great insight into being a full-time footballer and encouraged us to reach our potential" said Wolves’ star Matt Doherty.

"It was a great year with great people and it helped to prepare us for life as a professional footballer. Although my ambition was to play full time professional football, the education was a great back up plan." said Enda Stevens.

Female players are also very welcome to apply for the courses with some high-profile players having graduated from the FAI-ETB programme in recent years including current Republic of Ireland Women’s National Team Captain, Katie McCabe who spent a year on the Clondalkin course before signing professional forms with Arsenal FC. Katie is among a group of female FAI-ETB course graduates including Stephanie Roche and Roma McLaughlin who have made the step up to full international level.

The FAI-ETB courses are headed up by a team of FAI Coordinators with UEFA A and UEFA Pro License qualifications who have also come from a professional football background. So, young players will have access to top class training in state-of-the-art facilities and sound career advice if becoming a professional footballer is their ambition. Of course, not everyone will make the grade to a pro player - but the course will help players to find their level and hopefully continue to enjoy the game.

On the academic side of the programme, learners will complete a QQI Level 5 in Sport & Recreation studies plus an ITEC Gym Instructor Diploma, Pool Lifeguard and FAI Coaching Certificates. In the last number of years, the CAO points accumulated on this programme has allowed numerous learners to progress to Third Level Institutions in Ireland, the U.K and even avail of college scholarships in the USA. Course graduates have continued to add to their educational development in a variety of degree courses in the Institutes of Technology in Cork, Limerick, Waterford and Carlow where sports themed degree courses are very popular choices.

If you’re a young player looking to achieve your potential in a sporting or educational context, you can apply now for the 2019-20 FAI / ETB Player Development courses by visiting; www.fai.ie/fai-etb-courses

Tickets
The game is completely sold out with no tickets available due to the phenomenal demand and capacity within the Victoria Stadium.

General
There will be a Fan Zone, for supporters without tickets, located at Casemates Square where a giant screen will broadcast the game live.

Safety & Security
No large bags or backpacks will be allowed inside the Victoria Stadium due to a 'No Bag Policy'

Social Media 
For all breaking news including the exclusive announcement of the Republic of Ireland starting XI and behind-the-scenes content, follow our official Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube accounts.

The official hashtags for the game are #GIBIRL and #EURO2020

The victory is Carlow’s fourth success in the competition and their first since 2012. It also adds to their CFAI Colleges Plate success, making it three trophies that are currently residing in South Leinster.

Ten of the eighteen players from Tuesday night’s Premier Division Final were involved again for Carlow and the confidence was running sky-high when they powered past Athlone IT by five goals to one with Callum Ennis netting three of them in the win.

There was no mercy shown to DCU either as Ennis scored another hat trick with Player of the Tournament Danny Doyle also getting a treble in the 8-1 win over their Dublin counterparts.

Entering into their final game against Drogheda Institute of FE, a draw at minimum would have proven to be sufficient for a complete victory but they maintained their 100% record with a 2-0 win courtesy of Doyle’s opener before a shot deflected in off Alen Vilums to seal the victory.

IT Carlow will now enter the FAI Futsal Cup Semi-Finals along with Athlone IT who recovered from their opening round defeat to snatch the runners-up spot from Drogheda. Playing the final game of the day being three points and three goals behind their Louth rivals in the table, they overcame a stuttering start to put eight past DCU in the final game with Emiliano Quintana scoring on four occasions.

Results
RUSTLERS CUFL Futsal Cup Results
IT Carlow 5-1 Athlone IT
Drogheda Institute of FE 4-3 Dublin City University
IT Carlow 8-1 Dublin City University
Drogheda Institute of FE 2-2 Athlone IT
IT Carlow 2-0 Drogheda Institute of FE
Dublin City University 0-8 Athlone IT