FAI Programmes
The overall aim of the Grassroots Unit is to increase participation in the game at all levels. Grassroots Football includes children, youth, adult amateur players, and veterans. The programme covers all non-elite football, and also try's to target some particular groups eg. women, disadvantaged groups, and homeless to name a few.
The Football Association of Ireland recognise the importance of football at grassroots level and have emphasized this within their Technical Plan. The support of grassroots football continues right through to a European and World level with UEFA and FIFA.
The Unit consists of 5 key areas:
- Football For All
- Summer Soccer Schools
- Futsal
- Schools, College & Universities
- Intercultural Football
The Football Association of Ireland run 23 programmes throughout schools, clubs, leagues, etc. These include:
GRASSROOTS
1. Schools & Colleges Soccer
2. Summer Soccer Schools
3. Football for All Programme
4. Futsal Programme
5. Intercultural Programme
WOMEN’S DEVELOPMENT
1. Soccer Sisters
2. Winter Training Programme
3. Emerging Talent Programme
4. Scholarship Scheme
5. Club & League Development
PLAYER DEVELOPMENT
1. Underage International Programme
2. Emerging Talent Programme
3. Goalkeeper Development
FAI EDUCATION
1. Coach Education
2. Referee Education Programme
3. Volunteer Education / Training Programme
4. FAI /FAS Training Scheme
5. Code of Ethics / Best Practice
SOCIAL INCLUSION
1. Late Night Leagues
2. Drop Ins/Blitzes
3. Anna Livia Cup
4. Street Leagues
5. “Goal to Work”
