SSE Airtricity League players Roberto Lopes (pictured above), Sean Gannon and Lido Lotefa, along with Ireland international and WNL star Aine O'Gorman spoke to classes around the country, educating students and promoting an anti-racism and anti-discrimination message.
Due to the current Covid-19 pandemic, each visit took place virtually, with the players answering questions given to them directly from the classrooms around the country.
FAI Intercultural National Co-Ordinator, Des Tomlinson felt the programme was a success.
"It was really great to have the support of players in our National Leagues helping to educate young people on the importance of Showing Racism and other forms of Discrimination the Red Card, and the importance of celebrating difference.
"This innovative collaboration saw players remotely going into classrooms to talk with young people and was brought together with the support of the PFA Ireland, in conjunction with the FAI’s Intercultural Office and Local FAI Development Officers - schools collaboration was a fitting practical legacy from the solidarity shown by players in our national leagues in taking a knee in support of the world wide call for equality.
It is hoped next year, that players will be able to visit the classrooms personally, and give the students more opportunities to learn about a very important topic.
Patricipating Schools
St. Joseph's NS, Longford - Lido Lotefa
Balbriggan ETNS, Dublin - Aine O'Gorman
St. Thomas's NS, Tallaght - Roberto Lopes
Francis St CBS, Dublin - Sean Gannon
St. Christopher's NS, Ringsend
St. John the Apostle NS, Galway
Dean Kelly NS, Westmeath