The FAI treats all Child Protection and Welfare issues with the highest priority. The Association is working with ISPCC, the national child protection charity, and has worked closely with several organisations, including Barnardo's (www.barnados.ie) and One-In-Four (www.oneinfour.ie).

The FAI would like to remind all member clubs, leagues and stakeholders that they have a responsibility to comply with the statutory regulations laid out in National Vetting Bureau (Children and Vulnerable Persons) Act 2012 to ensure all adults working with children have received Garda vetting.

In accordance with the FAI Child Welfare Policy and Children First National Guidance, members of the FAI who are advised, suspect or are concerned that a child may be at risk of abuse are obliged to report these concerns to TUSLA (www.tusla.ie) and the relevant Designated Child Officer of their Affiliated Member body. 

In the event of an emergency where a child is believed to be in immediate danger, the Statutory Authorities should be alerted as a matter of urgency. This may be done through any Garda station. All child abuse investigations will be dealt with by the Statutory Authorities, with the support of the FAI.

Caroline O'Sullivan, Director of Services for ISPCC, said: "The ISPCC, through its Childline service, is happy to support the FAI to provide a 24-hour listening service to children all over Ireland. It is really important that sporting organisations and clubs are proactive in their approach to child protection, and that children are aware of where to go for support should they need it, so that they can be listened to and believed."

Below are a number of organisations which can help with various issues:

Irish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Children ISPCC Childline
National 24-hour service for children and young people up to the age of 18.
Freephone: 1800 66 66 66
Text Talk to: 50101
www.childline.ie

Rape Crisis Centre
National 24-hour confidential helpline for women and men who have been raped, sexually assaulted, sexually harassed or sexually abused at any time in their lives.
Freephone: 1800 77 88 88
www.drcc.ie 

One in Four
Professionally supports men and women who have experienced sexual abuse during childhood.
Phone: 01 662 4070 (Monday to Friday, 9:30am to 17:30)
www.oneinfour.ie 

Connect
An additional service to the HSE's National Counselling Service which provides free face-to-face counselling for people who have suffered abuse, trauma or neglect in their childhood.
Freephone: 1800 477 477
www.connectcounselling.ie 

Samaritans
National 24-hour helpline which offers confidential, non-judgemental support.
Freephone: 116 123
www.samaritans.org 

PFA Ireland
Support for all professional and semi-professional footballers playing in the SSE Airtricity League.
Email: info@pfai.ie 
www.pfai.ie 

FAI Child Welfare Department
Dedicated staff dealing with various issues surrounding Child Welfare and Safeguarding.
Email: childwelfare@fai.ie 
Child Welfare Policy: Click here

FAI Football For All National Coordinator Oisin Jordan said: "This award recognises all the hard work over the last number of years to we have done to look to creating opportunities for all players to access and play football in their local community and the benefits of a collaborative approach to inclusion within the football family.

"I would like to extend my congratulations Carrigaline United for their win in the Best Inclusive Club category and also to Esker Celtic and Killarney for making the Runners-Up recognition in the same category. To have three FAI clubs in the final three out a large number of entries again tells us we are going in the right direction and that our clubs really are embracing their communities and all who live in them.

"This award also highlights the strength of the FAI's Vision for the next five years where every person in Ireland will have the opportunity to reach their full potential no matter what that is. The FAI have also began a process with CARA Centre and Sport Ireland to improve our approach to inclusion which, in tandem with our new FFA Strategy launching in 2017, we will continue to develop our inclusive practices into the future."

The game marked Tetrarch Hospitality's first major event as part of their new partnership with the FAI's Football For All programme with the best of the FFA players from Leinster and Munster competing over 90 minutes in a competitive game.

Leinster broke the deadlock within the first 20 minutes with a goal from Cian Fitzpatrick. Munster did not let this affect them and pushed hard for the equaliser and got their just reward on 30 minutes when Jamie McStay sent in a swerving corner kick that deceived the Leinster goalkeeper and dropped into the goal.

At 1-1, the game continued at a fast pace with both sides having chances but both keepers made some good saves. On 50 minutes, Leinster again took the lead with a great run from Jack Curran down the left with him cutting into the penalty box and driving a low shot beyond the Munster keeper.

Munster responded with a couple of near misses over the next 10 minutes but in the final 20 minutes Leinster showed their class with three quick goals in 15 minutes from Leinster's players of the game Curran and Fitzpatrick, who claimed his hat-trick with two more goals before the final whistle.

FFA National Coordinator Oisin Jordan commented: "This is a real landmark for the Football For All club programme after six years of developing the club network we now have made the next step of our development pathway for players involved. The Inter-provincial matches now give existing youth players and the younger players coming through the system something to strive to. The backup bag of our new sponsor Tetrarch Hospitality has given the programme investment to ensure we as an Association can increase participation numbers within the programme."

FAI Vice President Donal Conway was on hand to present the winning team with the trophy and remarked on the dedication of all the players and the way the game was played in a truely fair play attitude. The players were a credit to their parents, clubs and coaches and he wished both teams well in the preparation for the next two games in 2017.

Leinster Squad: James Hogan, John Fitzsimons, Jamie Bradshaw, Ciaran Boggans, Sean O'Dalaigh, Adam Murphy, Mark Lonergan, Shane Kavanagh, Michael Kelleher, Mark Hennigan, Scott Mates, Daniel Walsh, Cillian Keating, Sean McManus, Jack Curran, Dylan Steele, Dylan Hanson, Cian Fitzpatrick

Munster Squad: Sean Shannon, Jack Hogan, John Jordan, Dylan Butler, Jack Hickey, Jack O'Keefe, Dion Kennedy, Cian Cotter, Matthew Collins, Daniel Carey Power, Keith Begley, Darragh Leahy, Cormac Hanley, Daniel Kelly, Michael O'Donovan, Jamie McStay, Conor Cummins, Morgan O'Neil, Jon Foxseang, Jonathan Healy

The Road to the Aviva Stadium is gathering pace with the draw for the last 16 taking place in FAI Headquarters this afternoon. 

Current holders of the trophy, Crumlin United, were drawn at home to the winners of the all-Leinster Senior League tie between Ballymun United or St Patrick's CY.

The FAI Umbro Intermediate Challenge Cup 4th Round Draw in full is: 

Liffey Wanderers v St Mary's 

Cherry Orchard v Everton AFC

Glenville v Edenderry Town

Crumlin United v Ballymun United or St Patrick's CY

Ballincollig AFC or Ringmahon Rangers v Bluebell United

Bangor Celtic v Greystones United

Sacred Heart or Cobh Wanderers v Killester United

College Corinthians v Portmarnock AFC

Fixtures to be played the weekending 22nd January 2017.

Futsal is said to be the world’s most played small sided sport with 25 million participants.  The game is praised for the number of star footballers it has nurtured over the years. Therefore it’s not surprising to hear that Brazil is estimated to have more futsal players than football players. The two disciplines complement each another brilliantly.

These legends of the football world have inspired youngsters to get involved and in doing so have increased the profile of futsal on an International scale.

Futsal is the official indoor version of “the beautiful game”. It’s a fantastic way for young players to develop and improve their football abilities in a highly paced environment. The nature of the game creates an emphasis on improvisation, creativity, technique as well as ball control and passing in confined spaces.

The competition now in its ninth year has grown steadily with participation at an all time high. The competition caters for boys and girls in first year. Competitions commenced in October with schools progressing from County to Provincial levels and now onto the National series.

As part of the FAI Schools development programme, futsal is used as a way of introducing youngsters to the game of football and thus increasing grassroots participation within the sport.

Over 15,000 students have taken part in the FAI Schools futsal Initiative inside a three month period in Primary & Post Primary Schools throughout Ireland.

Seán Carr, Chairman, FAI Schools paid tribute to the enormous contribution of the FAI’s Regional Development Officers in overseeing the competitions at local level.

“The growth of the game within the schools structure can be attributed to the hard work being done at local level by the Development Officers as they play a vital role in the success of the initiative each year”.

The climax of the Post Primary School’s event will see the cream of schools futsal on display in Waterford later in the week

The focus will be on our local talent with eight schools competing for the coveted title of National Futsal Champions.

Schools from Kerry, Kilkenny, Galway and Donegal will contest the Girls section while Sligo, Donegal, Louth and Cork will all challenge for the crown in the Boys section.

The four girls Provincial finalists have created great excitement in their respective schools with their progression to the National stage. Pobalscoil Inbhear Scéine, Kenmare, Presentation Secondary School, Kilkenny, Claregalway College and Loreto Community School, Milford are all within striking distance of the silverware.

These schools are no strangers to schools football with Claregalway College girls winning the National Minor title last season. The youngsters all in first year of education will be aspiring to the success of their counterparts in this fun filled event. Five of the Galway girls were involved in the SPAR 5s National Finals for their Primary school last May when they appeared in the Girls ‘B’ Section for medium schools, representing Claregalway National School in the Aviva Stadium. 

Alanah Griffin, Annagh Moran, Shauna Brennan, Kate Slevin and Caoilfhionn O’Dwyer came a gallant runners up in the prestigious competition. Likewise Presentation SS, Kilkenny were beaten finalists in the National Senior Cup in Waterford last year, missing out on the title to namesake Presentation SS, Thurles in a thrilling final. Newcomers Pobalscoil Inbhear Scéine and Loreto Milford will relish the occasion and have nothing to lose as they challenge for the honours this time out. 

The boys draw will be a closely fought encounter with Summerhill College, Sligo, Scoil Mhuire, Buncrana, St. Mary’s Diocesan School, Drogheda and St. Francis College, Rochestown all bidding for glory.

Scoil Mhuire have been involved at this level before, coming third in 2011 in the Nationals. The Buncrana girls also starred more recently in 2013 coming third place. Can Eoin Leonard and Vinnie Hegarty guide them to National success in 2016?

St. Mary’s DS have a number of talented players that featured in FAI Schools competitions previously. Similar to the Claregalway ladies, a number of them lined out in the Aviva last May for the SPAR 5s National Finals. Representing Scoil Cholmcille, Mount Hanover was Conor McQuail Leech, Adam Kelly, captained his side to National success grabbing gold that day.

Star of the show was Alan Bowden who picked up the Player of the Tournament accolade in Section ‘A’ for small schools making it a day to remember for the trio. Can they make it another top podium finish on Thursday afternoon for St. Mary’s Diocesan School.

Rochestown’s St. Francis College have been in formidable form in this competition as they cruised into the Nationals following a stunning performance in their provincial qualifiers. All eyes will be on Adrian Thibaut, Jay Clarke and Barry McCarthy who were outstanding for the Cork school. 

Sligo’s Summerhill College had an impressive outing in their provincial decider as they notched up 14 goals in 4 games, only conceding 6. Pat Tuohy will have the boys were prepared for this encounter as they go in search of National glory. They last starred in the Nationals in 2013 coming runners up.

Mark Scanlon, FAI National Co-ordinator for Schools & Third Level Football will oversee proceedings on the day and is very excited by the fixtures on display.

"Futsal is the way we see football being taken forward in the country and from what I have seen at Provincial Finals nationwide and in Dublin, it is very encouraging,"

"Current Republic of Ireland Captain and St. Catherine’s VS, Killybegs scholar Seamus Coleman played Futsal during his time with Sligo Rovers and his recent goal against Georgia was certainly reminiscent of Futsal skills."

The competition has proven to be very successful at local level and this is evident with the huge numbers of entrants and the sheer quality of futsal being demonstrated. The competition has caught the imagination of everybody involved and should prove highly entertaining for the travelling supporters when the games commence...

For further information on the event please contact Diane Fay, FAI Schools on 01 8999 522.

GIRLS SECTION

Claregalway College, Galway (CONNACHT): Alanah Griffin, Annagh Moran, Shauna Brennan, Kate Slevin, Nicole Sweeney , Aoife Killilea, Laura Scanlon, Caoilfhionn O’Dwyer, Aine Cellarius, Hazel Shevlin, Leoni Keane, Blathnaid Kelly

Teachers: K Burke & L Murray

Loreto Community School, Milford, Donegal (ULSTER): Orla Corry, Sinead McBride, Leah Afxentiou, Nadine Gallagher, Orla Gallagher, Edel McGettigan, Aisling McCormack, Aisling Green, Emily Pastor, Kelsey McAteer, Kate Sweeney

Teachers: Alison Stoddart & Nicola McGinley

Pobalscoil Inbhear Sceine, Kenmare, Kerry (MUNSTER): Sarah Taylor, Amy Harrington, Laurie Adams, Abbie Murray, Katie Cronin, Molly Bhamvra, Rachel Riordan, Aoife Crowley

Teachers: Caroline Taylor & Thomas O'Sullivan

Presentation Secondary School, Kilkenny (LEINSTER): Ellie O’Neill, Katie Ryan, Keara Ryan, Ellen Molloy, Niamh Phelan, Sarah Barcoe, Tara Houlihan, Louise McInerney, Kate Furlong, Sarah Sida, Rachel Wheelan, Emma Shortall

Teachers: Wendy Roche & Monica Kearns

BOYS SECTION

Scoil Mhuire, Buncrana, Donegal (ULSTER): Oran McBride, Shane Doherty, Bobby Bradley, Micheal McLaughlin, Jamie McDaid, Sean McCallion, Caolan Mullholland, Kevin Jordan, Gerry McKinney, Oran McLaughlin, James O’Hagan, Paul Mullan

Teachers: Eoin Leonard & Vinnie Hegarty

St. Francis College, Rochestown, Cork (MUNSTER): Ben O'Leary, Barry McCarthy, Sean Cummins, Matthew Murphy, Adrian Thibaut, Jay Clarke, Cian O'Flaherty, Jack Cunningham, Jack Rosengrave, Ryan Driscoll, Colm O'Sullivan, Sean Brady

Teachers: Stephen Bermingham, David Donovan & Patrick Croke

St. Mary’s Diocesan School, Drogheda, Louth (LEINSTER): Evan Fay, Emmet Higgins, Ben Maguire, Ben Sweeney, Kyle Carroll, Conor McQuail Leech, Shaun Leonard, Alan Bowden, Caolan Nulty, Owen Mullen, Adam Kelly, Fionn Meagher

Teachers: B Hobbs & G Brett

Summerhill College, Sligo (CONNACHT): Killian Barrett, Daniel Kilcullen, Fintan Campbell, Sean McAteer, Kailin Barlow, Ross Doherty, Canice Mulligan, Luke Moran, Jack Canning, Jack Mc Govern, Cathal Morahon, Ronan McGowan  

Teachers: Pat Tuohy & Adrian Barrett

The 16-nation tournament marks a huge stepping stone for the FAI’s co-hosting of UEFA EURO 2020, as well as reinforcing Ireland’s growing reputation of running major international football tournaments.

FAI President Tony Fitzgerald praised the announcement by saying: “This achievement, in gaining one of the most prestigious underage football tournaments, brings to an end, a remarkable year for Irish football.

“The successes of our underage international teams, the performance of our men’s senior team at UEFA EURO 2016, the Dublin launch of UEFA EURO 2020 and being awarded this tournament are the highlights of a great year.”

FAI CEO John Delaney welcomed the news and thanked the key stakeholders who partnered the Association during its bidding process.

“This is great news for Ireland and it is, once again, testament to the great work that has been done in partnership with all those who have pledged support with our bidding process,” said Delaney.

“In particular, I would like to thank all of the Dublin regional council authorities, Dublin City Council, South Dublin County Council, Fingal County Council and Dun Laoghaire Rathdown County Council, who were tremendous supporters throughout this process.

“This is a prestigious tournament and will bring the best European underage talent to these shores for what will be a memorable football occasion for all of Ireland.”

FAI Director of High Performance Ruud Dokter said the awarding of the 2019 tournament to Ireland marked the end of an “excellent year for underage football in this country”. 

“This announcement comes on the back of the successes of our Under 17s and Under 19s for both men and women, who have qualified for the Elite Rounds of their respective UEFA European Championship campaigns,” said Dokter.

“This news from UEFA is extremely positive for Irish football. Hosting the UEFA European Under 17 Championship Finals in 2019 perfectly fits in with everything we are trying to do with the development of our players.

"We have so much in place now with the progression of the National Leagues, from Under 15 through to Under 19 level, developing the elite pathway for young players in this country. There have been many examples of our young players progressing, such as Cork City excelling in the UEFA Youth League, and this tournament will mean Irish people will get to see the best young players in Europe.

"It's a collective responsibility for everyone involved in Irish football to make the finals a success. It is also an opportunity to build our infrastructures and ensure our venues and training facilities are at the highest level possible also."

Earlier this year, the FAI revealed that one of the strategic objectives of the Association was to host an underage finals tournament, thus outlining a deep commitment for the ongoing development of underage football.

That development has included the completion of the FAI National Training Centre, the ongoing work with the Emerging Talent Programmes, the strengthening of the Continental Tyres Women’s National League, and the launch of SSE Airtricity National Under 19, Under 17 and shortly, Under 15, Leagues. All of this activity, combined with the Player Development Plan, helps to enhance and strengthen underage international football in Ireland.

Hosting the UEFA European Under 17 Championship Finals in 2019 will promote the importance of underage football to the wider Irish public. The FAI has already started on plans to generate stronger bonds between supporters and underage football, which will, in turn, help to drive attendances and the public profile for years to come.

The FAI chose to bid for the hosting of the 2019 tournament on the basis of building on a proven track record of hosting tournaments and key events, including the UEFA Europa League Final in 2011, the UEFA Regions' Cup in 2015, and numerous First Phase and Elite Round mini-tournaments in recent years. Each of those events received special recognition from UEFA for the excellent manner in which they were planned and delivered. 

The awarding of the UEFA European Under 17 Championship Finals in 2019 is an important stepping stone to UEFA EURO 2020 and will feature 16 teams, with the Republic of Ireland automatically qualifying as hosts.

FAI High Performance Director Ruud Dokter, FAI Coach Education manager Niall O’Regan and FAI Coach Education Co-ordinator Warren Bolger were joined by coaches Paul Osam, Barbara O’Connell and Marcus Grant at the launch.

Republic of Ireland Under 16 Head Coach Osam is currently participating on the FAI UEFA Pro Licence course, former Cork City WFC player Barbara O’Connell has just completed the FAI National C Licence and Limerick DSL coach Marcus Grant has just commenced the UEFA B qualification.

The FAI’s Coach Education Pathway 2017-2020 has been tailored to suit the needs to coaches whose ambitions are to work in different strands of the game – grassroots and volunteer level to elite/professional level.

“It is hugely important that coaches around the country understand their role in fulfilling the Player Development Plan and the restructuring of the Coach Education Pathway will facilitate those that wish to coach with grassroots clubs and those with ambitions to work with elite players,” said FAI High Performance Director Ruud Dokter.

“The coaches we have here today represent the different strands of Irish football that we are looking to cater for. It’s not just about the Elite but also ensuring the game improves across all levels. Coaches are vital for this.”

FAI Coach Education manager Niall O’Regan said: “The pathway is based on the theory of reality based learning and is directly aligned to the FAI Player Development Plan.

“We have introduced the Elite Grassroots Licence for those wishing to become an Elite Coach in the grassroots game without requiring to enter the Licence pathway. The Elite Grassroots Licence will provide for those coaches that have accumulated 100 hours of grassroots coach education.” 

The significant change to the grassroots pathway means that now coaches enter in the reality based learning model at the level they are coaching. 

The Kick-Start 1 & 2 courses will be renamed PDP 1 & 2 and the relevant courses will now be: PDP 1 (formerly KS1): 6 to 9 year olds; PDP 2 (formerly KS2): - 9 to 12 year olds; PDP 3 (formerly Youth Certificate): 13 to 18 year olds; Adult Intro (Formerly Senior Intro): adult players.

Grassroots coaches seeking to progress to the Licenced level must complete a minimum of 40 hours of grassroots education before entering the Licence pathway at the D Licence Level.

“Another positive of the new pathway is that the progression to Licence Level for grassroots coaches now represents a significant cost saving of €125 on the previous pathway,” added O’Regan.

The significant changes to the Licence Pathway are the introduction of the following structure: National D Licence, National C Licence, UEFA B Licence, UEFA A Licence, UEFA A Elite Youth and UEFA Pro Licence. After completing the UEFA A Licence coaches are eligible to apply where suitable for the Elite Youth A and or the UEFA Pro Licence.

As part of the new pathway the specialist Goalkeeper Coaching route and futsal coaching route are now outlined.

It is now compulsory with FAI Coach Education that each coach will complete their Garda Vetting (or equivalent internationally) prior to entering the course, the FAI Child Welfare Training Programme and coaches entering the pathway as of 2017 will have to be a registered coach with the FAI Coach Education Department.

All FAI Coach Education courses nationwide will now be available to book from: FAI Coach Education Courses. Further details of courses can also be received by emailing niall.oregan@fai.ie 

Entry Routes to Licensed Coaching:

Entry route 1: National D Licence 

From Grassroots Pathway in which the coach has completed 40 hours of grassroots education and then applies for the National D Licence.

Entry route 2: National C Licence 

Any coach who currently has the FAI Youth Certificate have up until the end of 2017 to complete a conversion course to convert their qualification to a National C Licence – from 2018 onwards those with an FAI Youth Certificate will have to complete the full C Licence course. 

Entry point 3: National C Licence 

Once a coach has completed their National D Licence they then progress onto National C Licence. It is also the case that this is also the entry point for SSE Airtricity League or Elite Players.

Entry point 4: UEFA B

Once a coach has completed the National C Licence they will be recommended a time frame to progress to the UEFA B. Specialist Criteria: Under UEFA Convention, a former/current player whom has a minimum of five years of active playing (minimum 10 appearances annually) in the SSE Airtricity League or higher can enter at this phase. 

UEFA A

Coaches must have the UEFA B for a minimum of 12 months 

UEFA Elite Youth A Licence

Coach can enter this once they have an A Licence.

UEFA Pro Licence

Coach must have the A Licence for minimum 12 months and be working at required level 

Republic of Ireland supporters across the world will have the chance of an extra festive benefit this month as our exclusive competition offering a daily chance to win a selection of brilliant Ireland-related prizes gets underway.

Our monster Christmas giveaway sees different gifts on offer over the festive period, featuring a variety of unmissable items and opportunities, with the biggest prize of all to be won of Christmas Day.

Some of the prizes in the FAI’s Christmas giveaway include:

• A player issue jersey from a UEFA EURO 2016 game
• Premium Level DUO packages for the March games against Wales and Iceland
• Kids backpacks full of Ireland kit
• Places on the FAI Summer Soccer Schools & Aviva Soccer Sisters
• Signed jerseys by the men and women’s senior international squads
• 2017/18 FAI Season Tickets
• Tickets to a gig at the 3Arena in Dublin
• Passes to a men’s senior international training session
• A corporate box for a senior international game
• Many more fantastic prizes to be announced

Today's fantastic prize is 5 pairs of tickets to the Three International Friendly with Iceland on March 28. Keep an eye on our social media channels for that one later today!

Entering is simple  - make sure you are following all our social media channels where we’ll select an account each day to giveaway prizes on.

Follow the Football Association of Ireland on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube now to ensure you don’t miss out on any opportunities to win!  

The Kilkenny ladies had a battle on their hands with runners up Claregalway College in the early stages of competition as well as closely fought wins against Loreto Community School, Milford and Pobalscoil Inbhear Scéine, Kenmare to claim the coveted title. This was the first time the Kilkenny ladies secured the silverware and followed a fabulous week for the school having claimed a National volleyball title the previous day.

The Sligo boys overcome some talented sides as they faced St. Francis College, Rochestown, St. Mary’s Diocesan School, Drogheda and Scoil Mhuire, Buncrana to take the title in fine style with five wins and a draw. This is the first time Summerhill College secured top spot having previously came runners up in 2013.

GIRLS SECTION

The first series of games kicked off with all four schools securing a point to kick start their campaign. Loreto CS, Milford and Pobalscoil Inbhear Scéine played out a scoreless draw while Presentation SS, Kilkenny drew 1-1 with Claregalway as Ellen Molloy’s effort cancelled out Shauna Brennan’s strike.

The second round saw Presentation SS victories over Loreto CS in a seven goal thriller as the game finished 5-2 to the Kilkenny School. Keara Ryan (2), Niamh Phelan (2) and Ellen Molloy all netted for Presentation as Aisling McCormack and Kelsey McAteer were the Loreto goal-scorers. Claregalway outplayed the Kenmare girls 4-0 to take some valuable points. Shauna Brennan (2), Kate Slevin and Blathnaid Kelly all converted.

The Kilkenny side continued winning ways at they came out 3-1 winners against Pobalscoil Inbhear Scéine in the third series of games. Ellen Molloy (2) and Niamh Phelan scored while Abbie Murray got the Kerry contingency off the mark for the afternoon. Claregalway put four past the Donegal side as Shauna Brennan picked up her hat-trick and Kate Slevin netted late on.

Midway through proceedings, it was Presentation up against their counterparts Claregalway College as the previous encounter saw them deadlocked on points. It was a pulsating tie as Presentation overcame the Galway girls by the slenderest of margins, winning out 3-2. Ellen Molly (2) and Keara Ryan got on the scoresheet for the Cats as Shauna Brennan secured a brace for Galway. Loreto CS produced a strong display against Pobalscoil Inbhear Scéine as Sinead McBride and Kelsey McAteer got on the scoresheet to outdo Abbie Murray’s earlier goal winning out 2-1.

The penultimate series of games saw Presentation overcome Loreto CS 4-1 with Niamh Phelan (2), Ellen Molloy and Keara Ryan all getting past the Donegal keeper. Aisling McCormack was again on hand to score for Loreto. An impressive performance from Claregalway saw Shauna Brennan set up her second hat-trick of the afternoon as well as a brace from Aoife Killilea and Blathnaid Kelly to overcome Kenmare’s Pobalscoil Inbhear Scéine 6-0.

The last matches of the day saw Presentation Kilkenny finish with a 4-1 flourish against Pobalscoil Inbhear Scéine. Laurie Adams converted for the Munster Champions while Ellen Molloy hit a hat-trick and Niamh Phelan got Kilkenny’s fourth of the game. Claregalway slotted three past Loreto CS to pick up silver. Shauna Brennan, Kate Slevin and Nicole Sweeney all converted.

Shauna Brennan, Claregalway College was top scorer on 12 goals, closely followed by Ellen Molloy of Presentation SS, Kilkenny on 10 goals.

SQUADS

Claregalway College, Galway: Alanah Griffin, Annagh Moran, Shauna Brennan, Kate Slevin, Nicole Sweeney , Aoife Killilea, Laura Scanlon, Caoilfhionn O’Dwyer, Aine Cellarius, Hazel Shevlin, Leoni Keane, Blathnaid Kelly

Teachers: Karen Burke & Laura Murray

Loreto Community School, Milford, Donegal: Orla Corry, Sinead McBride, Leah Afxentiou, Nadine Gallagher, Orla Gallagher, Edel McGettigan, Aisling McCormack, Aisling Green, Emily Pastor, Kelsey McAteer, Kate Sweeney

Teachers: Alison Stoddart & Nicola McGinley

Pobalscoil Inbhear Sceine, Kenmare, Kerry: Sarah Taylor, Amy Harrington, Laurie Adams, Abbie Murray, Katie Cronin, Molly Bhamvra, Rachel Riordan, Aoife Crowley

Teachers: Caroline Taylor & Thomas O'Sullivan

Presentation Secondary School, Kilkenny: Ellie O’Neill, Katie Ryan, Keara Ryan, Ellen Molloy, Niamh Phelan, Sarah Barcoe, Tara Houlihan, Louise McInerney, Kate Furlong, Sarah Sida, Rachel Wheelan, Emma Shortall

Teachers: Wendy Roche & Monica Kearns

BOYS SECTION

St. Francis College, Rochestown overcame St. Mary’s Diocesan School, Drogheda with a Matthew Murphy goal to open their campaign on a positive note. The Summerhill College lads overcame Scoil Mhuire, Buncrana 2-1 to take the points in another highly entertaining encounter.  A brace from Canice Mulligan out did Michael McLaughlin’s earlier goal.

A thrilling five goal showcase followed up in the second round of fixtures as St. Francis went down 2-3 to Summerhill College. Matthew Murphy and Adrian Thibaut got on the score-sheet for the Rochestown side but a hat-trick from Kailin Barlow secured a valuable win for the Sligo crew. The Buncrana lads served up a treat for us as they overcame St. Mary’s DS 3-2 to take the honours. Goals from Jamie McDaid (2) and Michael McLaughlin cancelled out Alan Bowden’s and Fionn Meagher efforts.

St. Francis College continued their impressive run when they netted a hat-trick of goals courtesy of Matthew Murphy (2) and Adrian Thibaut to take full points from Scoil Mhuire. Summerhill College upped the intensity of their performance with a seven goal cushion over St. Mary’s DS. Ross Doherty (2), Seán McAteer, Kailin Barlow, Canice Mulligan, Jack Canning and an OG was enough to see off the Leinster threat.

Round four saw St. Francis College overcome St. Mary’s DS 3-1 in a tight contest. Shaun Leonard picked up a goal for the Louth School while Jack Cunningham (2) and Adrian Thibaut converted for Cork. Summerhill College notch up another spectacular display against Scoil Mhuire winning out 7-1. Seán McAteer (2), Kailin Barlow (2), Canice Mulligan, Jack McGovern and an OG saw off the Donegal side as Michael McLaughlin netted for the Ulster men.

The penultimate series of matches had Summerhill 4-1 winners over runners up St. Francis College. Kailin Barlow (2), Seán McAteer and Canice Mulligan got their names on the score-sheet as Seán Cummins scored for Rochestown. St. Mary’s and Scoil Mhuire shared the spoils as Kyle Carroll’s effort was cancelled out by Jamie McDaid.

The final games of the day saw St. Francis College overcome Scoil Mhuire 2-1 as Cian O’Flaherty and Colm O’Sullivan netted for Rochestown while Jamie McDaid produced the goods for Buncrana. St. Mary’s DS shared the points with winners Summerhill College to finish their outing for the day with a brace each from Jack Canning and Alan Bowden to finish 2-2.

Top goal scorer was Summerhill College scholar Kailin Barlow who bagged 8 goals on the day. This was closely followed by colleague Canice Mulligan on 5 goals.

SQUADS

Scoil Mhuire, Buncrana: Oran McBride, Shane Doherty, Bobby Bradley, Micheal McLaughlin, Jamie McDaid, Sean McCallion, Caolan Mullholland, Kevin Jordan, Gerry McKinney, Oran McLaughlin, James O’Hagan, Paul Mullan

Teachers: Eoin Leonard & Vinnie Hegarty

St. Francis College, Rochestown, Cork; Ben O'Leary, Barry McCarthy, Sean Cummins, Matthew Murphy, Adrian Thibaut, Jay Clarke, Cian O'Flaherty, Jack Cunningham, Jack Rosengrave, Ryan Driscoll, Colm O'Sullivan, Sean Brady

Teachers: Stephen Bermingham, David Donovan & Patrick Croke

St. Mary’s Diocesan School, Drogheda, Louth: Evan Fay, Emmet Higgins, Ben Maguire, Ben Sweeney, Kyle Carroll, Conor McQuail Leech, Shaun Leonard, Alan Bowden, Caolan Nulty, Owen Mullen, Adam Kelly, Fionn Meagher

Teachers: Barry Hobbs & Gavin Brett

Summerhill College, Sligo: Killian Barrett, Daniel Kilcullen, Fintan Campbell, Sean McAteer, Kailin Barlow, Ross Doherty, Canice Mulligan, Luke Moran, Jack Canning, Jack Mc Govern, Cathal Morahon, Ronan McGowan                                

Teachers: Pat Tuohy & Adrian Barrett, John McAteer (Coach)

For the Under 19s, all roads lead to Georgia where the finals tournament will be staged in 2017, while the U17 finals will be held in Croatia. Firstly, however, they must get through the Elite Round.

Tom Mohan's Under 19 team will go into the Elite Round full of confidence having won two of their three qualifying games. The Boys in Green have been drawn into a tough group, consisting of last year's beaten finalists, Italy, along with Belgium and Sweden. The Elite Phase will be hosted by Belgium in March 2017. The venue and fixture details will be announced in due course.

For Colin O'Brien's Under 17s, it was three wins from three in the Qualifying Round as they progressed as group winners. In the Elite Round, the U17s will travel to Cyrpus for their games in Group 4, which will also involve Slovakia and Faroe Islands.

The six Elite Round group winners plus the runner-up with the best record against the teams first and third in their group will qualify for the finals.

The draws were also made for the 2017/18 campaign, which will see the U19's host the Qualifying Round games with Cyprus, Azerbaijan and Serbia also eyeing a route to the Elite Round and the Finals in Finland. 

O'Brien's U17 team, meanwhile, will travel to Bulgaria for their three Qualifying Round games in October 2017 as they take on the Group 11 hosts as well as Ukraine and Azerbaijan. 

The top two teams in each group, as well as the third-placed side with the best scoring record, will progress through to the Elite Round and take one step closer to the finals tournaments.

2016/17 UEFA Under 17 European Championship Elite Round
Group 4: Republic of Ireland, Cyprus, Slovakia, Faroe Islands
Fixtures: Games to be played between March 15 & 20, 2017
Qualifying Hosts: Cyprus

Finals Tournament: Croatia

2016/17 UEFA Under 19 European Championship Elite Round
Group 7: Republic of Ireland, Sweden, Italy, Belgium
Fixtures: Games to be played between March 23 & 28, 2017
Qualifying Hosts: Belgium

Finals Tournament: Georgia

2017/18 UEFA Under 17 European Championship Qualifying Round 
Group 11: Republic of Ireland, Bulgaria, Ukraine, Azerbaijan
Fixtures: Games to be played between October 10 & 16, 2017
Qualifying Hosts: Bulgaria

2017/18 UEFA Under 19 European Championship Qualifying Round
Group 7: Republic of Ireland, Serbia, Azerbaijan, Cyprus
Fixtures: Games to be played between October 4 & 10, 2017
Qualifying Hosts: Republic of Ireland 

Mr Nugent was also a former Leinster Senior League Vice-President. He was President of the LFA in 1996-1997 and served the game for many years as a referee and was brought onto the Leinster Senior League committee by the late Charlie Cahill.

Formerly of Dublin 7 and an employee of Player Wills, Kevin will be sadly missed by his beloved wife Ita and children Carol-Ann, John, Brendan, Ciarán and Barbara, his sister Kathleen, extended family and wide circle of friends. He was predeceased by his brother Noel.

FAI CEO John Delaney said: "Kevin Nugent was a real gentleman and a great football man. He served the game in many roles over many decades and I would like to extend the sympathies of the Association to his family and friends. We will remember his passing with a tribute at the next international against Wales."

FUNERAL ARRANGEMENTS

Reposing at his home on Wednesday evening (14th. December) between 6pm and 8pm with removal to St. Brigid’s Church, Blanchardstown on Thursday morning (15th. December) arriving for Requiem Mass at 10am followed by burial in The Ward Cemetery. No flowers, please. Donations, if desired, to The Capuchin Day Centre, Bow Street.

Visit http://www.fai.ie/primary5 TO REGISTER NOW

The programme involved almost 24,000 students last year with over 1,200 schools participating. The competition has been running since the mid 1990s and the programme promises to be bigger and better than ever this year. 

FAI Schools are delighted to announce that the National Finals will be hosted in the spectacular surrounds of the Aviva Stadium again this year. It could be your School in the National Finals on May 31, so sign up now for your chance to go all the way and create a day to remember for your School and its students.

This magnificent competition is for kids in 4th, 5th and 6th class and it all begins at your local county level. The events are a fantastic opportunity for girls and boys to participate in a fun filled one day blitz. There are six sections (3 for boys and 3 for girls) to cater for all school sizes so whether your school falls into the small, medium or large category there is a competition to cater for you. 

REGISTRATION PROCESS & PAYMENT

Please register your school now at www.fai.ie/primary5

Schools should forward a cheque for €50 made payable to FAI SCHOOLS to your relevant Provincial Organiser:

Munster: Mr. Gerard Duggan, St. Mary’s BNS, Ferrybank, Co. Waterford

Ulster: Mr. Martin Robins, 51 Ard Colgan, Carndonagh, Inishowen, Co. Donegal

Connacht: Mr. Noel Dervan, Lisaniskey NS, Ballydooley PO,Donamon, Co. Roscommon

Leinster: Mr. Tom Bolger, St. Bernadette’s SNS, Quarryvale, Dublin 22

Schools will not be allowed to participate until the online application form and entry fee has been received.

If you wish to make an amendment to your entry, please do not submit a second application. Amendments can be made by emailing primaryschools@fai.ie  

Each participating school will receive one complimentary football for entering the competition. You will receive this on the day of your local competition.

CLOSING DATES

Please note that this year we have one single closing date for all counties, the closing date is strictly Friday, February 17 at 5pm and no late applications will be accepted. 

For further information on the programme please email primaryschools@fai.ie. 

The Programme is aimed at assisting clubs in introducing girls, aged between 5-8 years of age, to their club structures and allow them to have fun at the same time.

In the Dublin suburb of Ringsend, girls took part in coaching sessions in local schools and club academies, which led to a fun blitz in Ringsend Park between Irishtown, Marino, East Wall and Cambridge.

Over in Terenure, girls from Terenure Rangers, Dundrum and Enniskerry came together for another fun event following on from successful development in their clubs.

In Cork, Lakewood Athletic have boosted their academy numbers through engagement with local schools and the volunteering of Under 18 and Senior Women’s team players in coaching.

The Soccer Sisters Nursery Programme allows clubs to introduce girls to football from a younger age, thus creating links with their local schools and other neighbouring clubs.

The development of Women's Football continues to grow at a rapid pace and Programmes, such as this, prove that the future is bright. And credit should go to the clubs around the country who are doing remarkable work with their many volunteers ensuring that girls have the opportunity to play no matter what the age.

This Programme will continue into 2017 and if any club would like more information, email women@fai.ie

As part of research for the current Strategic Plan, extensive discussion took place with clubs and Leagues around the country. It was quite evident that while the number of volunteers in the Women's Football has increased, there is still a need to massively increase that number in order to further develop the game.

The FAI believes in the future of Women’s Football and has made strong decisions to improve structures over recent years. Along with the support of UEFA and FIFA, the FAI are delivering a number of workshops to enable our clubs to develop to their fullest potential.

One such workshop is focused on Volunteer & Club Development. We are currently rolling out one workshop in each region, having already been in Cork and Limerick. This workshop is an opportunity for all clubs to gain in-depth knowledge of club structures and volunteer recruitment - it is a vital component to any club is the role of the volunteer.

The feedback from clubs in the South West and Mid-West regions has been very positive and assures us that this has been a worthwhile support for our clubs.

In January, the following workshops will take place:

• East Region (Dublin/Wicklow) – Tuesday, January 17, FAI HQ
• North East Region (Meath/Cavan/Monaghan/Louth) – Saturday, January 28, MDL Grounds
• North West Region (Donegal/Sligo/Leitrim) – Monday, January 30, Donegal Town

If any club would like more information or to register your clubs participation, email women@fai.ie

At the launch of the 2017 Aviva FAI Soccer Sisters Programme, eight lucky young girls got to meet and engage with four Republic of Ireland Senior Women’s international players during the launch at Aviva Stadium. 

Ireland vice-captain Louise Quinn has spent time visiting clubs and schools in Dublin and Wicklow, where she was able to provide an insight on developing as a young player, winning the Women's National League, earning international recognition, and forging a professional career abroad.

It is hugely important to have ambassadors in our game and we can provide your club with the opportunity to have them visit and inspire the next generation. It is the type of event that young girls dream about.

There may be limited opportunities for clubs and schools to get involved in 2017. If any club would like more information, email women@fai.ie

Ireland fanatic Eddie O’Mahony is not only a passionate supporter of Irish football, he also has curated an online museum to display his unique collection of Republic of Ireland jerseys.

Aiming to preserve one example of every Irish shirt style worn by the senior team since our first game in 1921, the online museum caters for the needs of Irish football historians across the world.

With famous match worn jerseys from past campaigns, irelandsoccershirts.com is a fascinating catalogue of Ireland’s football history. Shirts from all of Ireland’s major tournament appearances are available to view while recent classics, including Richard Dunne’s ‘marker’ shirt from the famous draw away to Russia, have also been secured by O’Mahony.

Dedicated to the memory of Ireland supporter James Nolan, the museum is a must-see for supporters. The full collection can be viewed HERE.

The amputee team came up against a side that included Damien Duff, Robbie Keane, Graham Barrett, current Shamrock Rovers manager Stephen Bradley and Republic of Ireland U21 Head Coach Noel King. The game was played as preparation to the European Championships that take place in 2017. 

The Irish Amputee Football Association operate under the FAI's Football For All programme and will provide any person with an amputation, congenital deficiency, or other limb affecting disorder with the opportunity to access Amputee Football at grassroots, club and national level. Training sessions are open to both male and female amputees of all ages.

Check out the full gallery below from today's exhibition game in Dublin.

For more information on Amputee Football visit http://www.irishamputeefootballassociation.com 

At an event in Cork County Hall today details of the project were announced for the football facility, which will support the provision of training, participation and playing facilities for players of all ages, coaches, referees and administrators, and one that will benefit the wider community and the grassroots of Irish Football.

The site will also provide training facilities for Cork City Football Club at a 30-acre site in Glanmire, 8 kilometres outside Cork city.

The proposed facility has also been identified as a potential Training Camp for teams competing in the UEFA Euro 2020 tournament, for which Ireland is hosting four matches

This vision, led by the Football Association of Ireland and supported by FORAS and Cork County Council, will act as a catalyst to unify the different strands of the game in Munster.

Work on the project is expected to begin in 2017, and is due to be completed within approximately two-and-a-half years.

FAI CEO John Delaney today paid tribute to the partnerships that were working together to develop the Munster Centre of Excellence.

“I would like to thank Cork County Council and Cork City/FORAS for the great work that has already been done on this exciting project,” said Delaney.

“This is a multi-partnership project which will include the FAI, Cork County Council, Cork City FC and FORAS, local business, a potential naming rights partner, UEFA and the Department of Transport, Tourism and Sport, and I look forward to working with all parties in the months and years ahead.

“Once complete, this will rival any sporting facility in the country, including the National Training Centre at Abbotstown. I hope to see similar facilities in place in Leinster and in Connaught, putting world-class football facilities on the doorsteps of everyone who plays the game.

“As well as being a training centre and base for Cork City FC, this will be a community facility which will be open for players of all ages, coaches, referees, volunteers and administrators. This will be there for all levels of the game, from our grassroots to our professionals.

Pat Lyons, Chairman of Cork City FC said today: “I am very pleased to be attending this launch on behalf of FORAS and Cork City Football Club. The history of League of Ireland football on Leeside has had many ups and downs, but no club has ever truly established a permanent base. Since FORAS assumed control of the club in 2010, this has been a key aim of ours and we are delighted to see the progress that is being made. 

“Since the concept of the project was first raised, we have been delighted at the way that the FAI, Cork County Council and the government have bought into it and we thank all involved for their work so far. We look forward to the project getting underway in earnest in the near future and continuing to work with all stakeholders to bring the project to fruition.

“The support Cork City FC had at the Aviva Stadium for the recent FAI Cup final from clubs across the length and breadth of the city and county was magnificent and we look forward greatly to continuing to build our relationships with the clubs and leagues across Cork. This project will give aspiring and existing footballers in Cork the best platform on which to showcase and develop their talent, and we look forward to working with all strands of the game on Leeside to make the most of this opportunity.”

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey said: “Cork County Council is very proud to support the FAI Centre of Excellence in Glanmire.  The vision to select such a strategic position will make this facility available to over half a million people, who will be within one hour’s drive of the complex. 

"The FAI’s selection also showcases the strength of our region, our economic strength to develop this site into the future but also our strength in sport.  As a Council, we are always proud to support local clubs and local recreational facilities, these are the cornerstones of our communities.  And strong communities enable a strong County.”

Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Séamus McGrath said: “As Mayor of the County of Cork, I am immensely proud of our rich sporting past.  Corkonians have excelled in a variety of sporting forms, both Nationally and Internationally.

“Now, with the collaboration of the FAI and Cork County Council, Cork will be home to an FAI Centre of Excellence.  A development which received unanimous support from the elected members of Cork County Council and will provide a fantastic community and sporting facility for Glanmire, Cork and Munster. 

“This development will be home to our FAI Cup winners, Cork City FC, but will also support grassroots sporting capabilities, enabling our future stars to prosper.”

Fianna Fail leader Micheál Martin, who attended today’s Project launch said: “As an avid fan of Cork City FC, I am thrilled to be able to join in the launch of the new Centre of Excellence, in Glanmire.

“Football in Cork City has a proud history - a history steeped in success - and the proposed Centre of Excellence will ensure future generations will benefit.

“This development, a partnership between the FAI, Cork County Council and the trust that operates Cork City Football Club (FORAS), is exactly how sporting facilities should be developed.

“This is an example of different stakeholders working together for the benefit of all.”

The concept of a Munster Centre of Excellence accelerated in 2015, when the FAI made a submission to Cork County Council outlining its vision for the facility in Cork, which resulted in a long lease for the 30-acre site at Brook Lodge, Glanmire.

Construction work on the project, which is at an advanced planning phase, is expected to begin in 2017 and when complete, it will contain the following playing facilities:

3 x Full Size Natural Turf Pitches (2 with Floodlighting)

1 x Full Size Artificial Turf Pitch with Floodlighting

3 x Small Sided Floodlit Artificial Turf Pitches

Goalkeeper Training Area

The Centre will also house a purpose-built pavilion with viewing area, which will include a classroom, gymnasium, dressing rooms, physiotherapy and medical and team rooms, as well as a community area, and other purpose build facilities.

Also, Republic of Ireland supporters across the world will have the chance of an extra festive benefit this month as our exclusive competition offering a daily chance to win a selection of brilliant Ireland-related prizes gets underway.

Our monster Christmas giveaway sees different gifts on offer over the festive period, featuring a variety of unmissable items and opportunities, with the biggest prize of all to be won of Christmas Day.

Some of the prizes in the FAI’s Christmas giveaway include:

• A player issue jersey from a UEFA EURO 2016 game
• Premium Level DUO packages for the March games against Wales and Iceland
• Kids backpacks full of Ireland kit
• Places on the FAI Summer Soccer Schools & Aviva Soccer Sisters
• Signed jerseys by the men and women’s senior international squads
• 2017/18 FAI Season Tickets
• Tickets to a gig at the 3Arena in Dublin
• Passes to a men’s senior international training session
• A corporate box for a senior international game
• Many more fantastic prizes to be announced

Today's fantastic prize is 5 pairs of tickets to the Three International Friendly with Iceland on March 28. Keep an eye on our social media channels for that one later today!

Entering is simple  - make sure you are following all our social media channels where we’ll select an account each day to giveaway prizes on.

Follow the Football Association of Ireland on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube now to ensure you don’t miss out on any opportunities to win!