FAI Interim Deputy CEO Niall Quinn presented Gardaí from nearby Coolock Garda Station with their Introductory Futsal Certificates after completing the programme with the aid of FAI Development Officer Jimmy Mowlds (pictured above, back row, second from left). The event took place in the Darndale Belcamp Community Centre.
The Late Nite League programmes act as a positive diversion away from traditional anti-social behaviour windows, most notably Friday and Saturday evenings. The LNL takes place in 47 venues around Ireland.
Mowlds and Garda Louise Burns (Coolock Garda Station) (pictured above, front row, right) have developed this concept further, in enabling the local Gardaí to become further proactive and confident in delivering this programme through a bespoke FAI Coach Education Award befitting Darndale’s challenges.
Niall Quinn, FAI Interim Deputy CEO said the programme shows the positivity football can bring to those around the country.
“The FAI is proud of our Association with the Gardaí, the Department of Children and Youth Affairs, Irish Public Bodies Insurance and local authorities in promoting Late Night Leagues across Ireland.
"The 2020 programme has been chosen as the Grassroots Legacy Programme for UEFA EURO 2020, and this March over 2,000 boys and girls aged between 13 and 15 will engage in a National Competition initiative", said Quinn.
"I congratulate all the Garda officers, the coaches, volunteers and FAI staff involved in the Late Night Leagues programme here in Darndale and I wish all the players the very best of luck in the games to come."
Jimmy Mowlds, FAI Development Officer said the partnership has been beneficial for everyone involved.
"The Garda initiative with the Late Night League in Darndale was designed to provide the Gardaí with the skills and knowledge to play an active role in the running of the League.
"The result of this initiative has seen Gardaí being able to break down barriers with the local community through positive community engagement", Mowlds added.
"While this programme had an initial five-week run, it is now a weekly programme in the area where Gardaí are an integral part of the implementation."