Applications open for FAI / ETB Player Development Courses

Eight dedicated centres located around the country

The Football Association of Ireland, in partnership with a number of Education and Training Boards throughout the country, have launched their latest round of educational and football development courses.

The FAI-ETB Player Development programme enables interested participants to train full-time while also availing of a sport-themed education programme. It helps young players to achieve their potential and, in many cases, to develop a career in professional football.

The programme also prepares participants for a career in the sports and leisure industry, as well as encouraging them to improve their level of education, thus enhancing their job prospects and opportunities.

The player development side of the programme has been hugely successful with over 100 graduates going on to play in the SSE Airtricity League, while players such as Kevin Long (Burnley), Matt Doherty (Wolverhampton Wanderers), Andy Boyle and Daryl Horgan (Preston North End) have earned call-ups to the Republic of Ireland men's senior squad.

"It was a year to savour and never to be forgotten. It prepared us for professional football and the education was a great back up. We're reaping the rewards now," said Boyle (pictured above with Fred Austin, Loughlinstown Training Centre, Annette Andrews, Baldoyle Training Centre, and Harry McCue, Course Coordinator)

The courses currently take place in venues in Clondalkin, Cabra and Irishtown in Dublin, Limerick, Castlebar, and Blarney, Carrigaline and Ringmahon in Cork. There are currently plans to expand the programme into other areas of the country.

As part of the academic side of the programme, participants will complete a QQI Level 5 in Sport & Recreation plus an ITEC Gym Instructors Diploma, Pool Lifeguard and FAI Coaching Certificates. A number of graduates have also gone on to third level institutions to continue their education.

Any young player looking to fulfil their potential - on and off the pitch - can apply now for the 2017/18 FAI-ETB Player Development Courses by visiting - www.fai.ie/fai-etb-courses