Young men and women from the FAI-ETB courses in Cabra, Clondalkin and Irishtown, which are all funded by the Dublin & Dun Laoghaire Education and Training Board were presented with their certificates by Republic of Ireland Manager, Mick McCarthy.
Representatives from the ETB Training Centres in Baldoyle and Loughlinstown as well as DDLETB Chief Executive, Paddy Lavelle were also in attendance to congratulate the successful trainees.
The FAI-ETB courses provide a unique blend of educational and football development for talented young footballers both male and female enabling participants to train full time while also availing of a sport themed education course accredited at QQI level 5. The programme assists 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. Further details can be seen at www.fai.ie/fai-etb-courses
Attendees at the graduation ceremony were reminded of the 100 past trainees who have progressed into the SSE Airtricity League in recent years. Premier League and Men’s Senior International players such as Matt Doherty and Enda Stevens also graduated from the Cabra course as well as Women’s National team captain, Katie McCabe who graduated from the Clondalkin course. These players are proof of the level to which current FAI-ETB trainees can aspire to play if they apply themselves in the correct manner.
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 here