The Football Association of Ireland
Technical Development Plan 2004-2008
Contents
INTRODUCTION
3 President’s message
5 Chief Executive’s message
7 Technical Director’s message
9 International Team Manager’s message
Section 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Section 2. FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
13 Context
14 The Irish Framework for the development of soccer
15 Planning and consultation process
18 Mission
19 Specific objectives
Section 3. BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
23 The Player Development Pathway
28 Grassroots soccer
– The Children’s Game
– The Men’s Game
– The Women’s Game
– Football for All
36 Emerging Talent
37 High Performance
Section 4. SERVICES, TRAINING AND EDUCATION
40 Coaches
42 Referees
43 Administrators
44 Parents
Section 5. LOCAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL STRUCTURES
47 Strengthening Clubs
48 Strengthening Leagues
50 Creating Quality Facilities
Section 6. MANAGEMENT, STRUCTURE AND FINANCE
53 Technical Department Structure
55 Funding and Resources
56 Measurement and Review
58 Outline Implementation Plan
Section 7. APPENDICES
61 1. Dates and venues for consultation
62 2. List of Atendees
64 3. Main outcomes from consultation
83 4. Draft Statement of Player Capacities
88 5. Roles and Responsibilities
2
Introduction
President’s message
We in the FAI know the life enhancing power of football, the effect it has on our health, our minds, the way it brings
us together and gives us a sense of national pride and identity.
The FAI envisage an Ireland where everyone can participate in football throughout their lives whether as players,
coaches, referees, administrators or in any other part of the game. We also look forward to the day when our high
potential players, men and women, are lifted by a supportive infrastructure to help them to sustain and improve
upon our success to date.
The FAI is 83 years-old this year and in all of that time there has never been a cohesive strategy for the long term
development of players, until now.
The development of this plan has undergone a wide process of consultation, unlike anything seen in Irish football or
perhaps in Irish sport. A wide range of views has emerged and there was no shortage of tasks our stakeholders
would like us to do.
The impact of this plan will, in my opinion, provide people at local regional and national levels with an opportunity
to participate and progress within the game on a scale that is far greater than can be imagined.
Milo Corcoran
President
3
Chief Executive’s message
THE mandate of the FAI is to foster and develop the game increasing participation at all levels and for both genders.
In fulfilling this mandate, the development of football related activities and programmes of the highest levels from
the playground to the representative teams at European and World level is essential.
This Technical Development Plan outlines the extensive work undertaken by the Association in the Technical area
and provides the clearest possible vision of how the FAI working with the football community can extend this
programme of work and transform the way the game is developed into the future.
The benefits to our players, our game and ultimately our communities are tangible ones. Player development,
personal development, social and psychological development in addition to the core technical aspects of the
pathways outlined in the plan bring substantial benefits to all our communities.
The plan sets detailed, comprehensive and ambitious targets and I know that successful implementation of the plan
will radically change the way we approach many aspects of the development and management of football in Ireland.
Football is the most popular sporting activity in the country, crossing cultural and gender barriers.The Technical
Development Plan will provide the young people of Ireland with a development path from nursery to elite international status unrivalled in any other sport. It will give a pathway and lifelong experience of the game to all who
participate. I hope the Irish state, business community, media and the public provide their complete support, as we
look to build a better game for the future generations.
Fran Rooney
CEO
Technical Director’s message
COACHES at all levels recognise that training and competition is essential to player success.They should also know
that young players are not miniature adults and that the emphasis and content of training differs according to the
developmental age of the player. Consequently, it is a long term process for young players to develop into elite
players.
With very young players, the emphasis of training should be on basic co-ordination and movement acquisition in a
fun environment and while challenges and competition are an essential part of training, they should not be the focus
of it.
As young players move through to each new phase of their development, the process and the programme should
be clear. It must also be methodical to allow easy transition to the next phase. Consideration of what should be
coached, when, for how long and how often, must be related to critical periods – the ‘windows of trainability’. Again
these must be linked if players are to reach their potential and fully develop as a person.Thus, it is essential to
develop and use a Long Term Plan for player development.
These considerations have involved the FAI in a critical examination of current coaching and training methods for
players. Study has been made of methods used by those countries which have achieved success in developing
football players on a consistent basis.The outcome of this assessment identifies areas which have to be redefined or
changed as appropriate within our game.
Our coaching and training structure and content will, with the help of the UEFA, the Irish Sports Council and the
National Coaching and Training Centre be re-designed. Our competitive schedules must be re-assessed to allow all
players more time to train, learn and master the movement, mental, technical and tactical skills necessary for them
to reach their true potential.
The FAI Long Term Player Development Programme as part of the Technical Development Plan will contribute to
skills, fitness and knowledge among Irish football players in the years to come.
We are all charged with the responsibility to ensure that players are provided with the best opportunities to fulfil
their dreams.
Packie Bonner
Technical Director
International Team Manager’s message
DURING my time as Underage International Team Manager and Technical Director, the deficiencies in current
methods of player development and the lack of structured, clear programmes or pathways for young players became
very obvious.
Having had the opportunity to see and compare what other progressive nations, both large and small have imposed
in their football system, I felt it was imperative that the Association in conjunction with the best coaches in Ireland
came up with some new thinking for the development of football in Ireland.
While the structures of clubs and competitive leagues have produced young players of some ability, many of whom
repeatedly emigrate to British clubs, our system in general has failed to produce players of a consistently high
technical ability in comparison to our European counterparts. In other vital areas such as core strength and tactical
awareness, our players are way behind, which was particularly obvious in recent European club encounters.
With the massive potential and talent available, I feel a new approach, with the emphasis on a long term and coordinated approach to developing players, involving all the partners in Irish soccer, will have major benefits for all
levels of the game in Ireland and of course, our national teams in the future.
It is essential that long term player development programmes be integrated to our structures in order to continue
to be competitive at all international levels and crucially, to improve the overall standard of football here in Ireland.
Having been involved in the process of the Technical Development Plan since its inception, I am delighted that the
document and its contents have received a wide welcome across the game as the way forward.The implementation
of the plan will take time and extraordinary dedication, but I feel the will is there to change and improve the type of
player being produced by our system, whilst maintaining the inherent competitiveness of Irish players.
Brian Kerr
International Team Manager
9
Section 1.0 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Developing the Irish Game
The Football Association of Ireland’s Technical Development Plan has been compiled following a period of extensive
study and stakeholder consultation over the last three years. The plan sets out the Irish framework for coaching
and player development under the leadership of the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) from 2004 - 2008 and
incorporates complimentary actions in refereeing, administration and training facility development.
Nine key objectives are outlined and the plan will seek to:
1. Define a clear philosophy and realistic pathways for the development of Irish players
2. Increase the quality and quantity of coaches, referees and administrators through an extensive programme of
education, support and resources at local, regional and national level
3. Increase grassroots participation
4. Provide a clear development structure for emerging talent
5. Create structured links between the underage game, the emerging talent programme and the semi-professional /
professional game in Ireland, UK and Europe
6. Enhance the standards of the National League against European benchmarks
7. Achieve and sustain international success
8. Provide guidelines and a framework for the development of quality training facilities at local, regional and national
Level
9. To put in place a structure to implement the Technical Development Plan which links club/school, county,
provincial, national and international aspects of the game
The Plan sets out the goals and actions which will drive the achievement of the above objectives. In addition, a full
re-organisation of the Technical Department of the FAI is proposed. The resources required to implement the plan
will be sought from within the game; commercial and corporate revenue, sponsorship and the Irish Government.
The implementation of the plan will be driven by the FAI’s Technical Department with half yearly and annual
evaluation reports produced for the Board of Management and regular updates to relevant key committees.These
reports will provide the basis for the continuous evaluation and adaptation of the plan against the objectives which
have been outlined.
11
7
Section 2.1 FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
Context
Soccer is the world’s leading sport. The game provides a healthy, enjoyable outlet for children and adults all over
the globe. In Ireland, soccer is a central part of sporting culture and plays a vital role in developing individuals and
in achieving international success.
Government policy has increasingly recognised the importance of sport to social, cultural, economic and
educational progress and through the policies of the Irish Sports Council, the Government is seeking to increase
participation in sport and maximise performances on the international stage.
While much progress has been made in developing the game in this country to date, there is a growing
recognition that the sport’s governing body, the Football Association of Ireland (FAI) needs to proactively reform the
way in which soccer is developed and managed. The need for a new direction was forcefully highlighted in the
FAI/Genesis Report (2002), which called for root-and-branch change within the organisation.
Significant progress has already been made in the implementation of the recommendations of the Genesis Report,
particularly in relation to the governance of the organisation.
Developments at national and international level also reinforce the need for changes in the way the game is
organised in this country and UEFA has recently signalled the importance of developing grass roots football in a
planned and systematic way. Within Ireland, the Irish Sports Council has highlighted the need for a more strategic
approach to the development of sport, while the National Coaching and Training Centre has drawn attention to the
fact that player development is a long-term process, taking ten years or more.
There was and has never been, since the foundation of the Association, a clear and concise plan to meet the needs
of players at each stage of their development and this has led to a lack of quality playing and coaching opportunities
within the game in comparison with other developed football nations. While interest in playing the game has grown
dramatically, the structures required to sustain this interest are not fully in place.This has led to a situation where
certain areas of the country and particular target groups are still struggling to find opportunities to play the game at
their own level.
On the international stage Irish teams have achieved many great results and performances over the years but in
order to sustain this success the game in Ireland must be developed in line with international best practice where
the leading nations have through their relevant Football Associations integrated the development of players into
their overall thinking, practice, philosophy and structure.
The next step, therefore, must be to ensure that the game is developed on a technically sound basis in this
country.This essential phase in the development of the FAI must take full account of the needs of players at each
phase of their development.
There is a need for a clear, agreed plan which provides a defined set of objectives for the development of the
game and outlines a clear programme of action,The identification of who is responsible for implementing these
actions has been determined and realistic timescales for their implementation outlined.
The delivery and implementation of the plan will provide a sound philosophy and framework to guide decision
making at all levels of the game and within the organisation.
13
Section 2.2 FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
The Irish Framework for the
development of Soccer
Soccer is the world’s leading sport. The game provides a healthy, enjoyable outlet for children and adults all over
the globe. In Ireland, soccer is a central part of sporting culture and plays a vital role in developing individuals and in
achieving international success.
Football in Ireland is entering an important new era.The consultation process which underpins this document has
shown clearly that the FAI needs to take a strong leadership role in the future. A new and agreed framework for
the development of football needs to be put in place and should include the following;
● The FAI must be more player oriented in all its
decision making and structures (See figure 1)
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● The framework must be developed taking due account
of Government policy in general and the policies of the
Irish Sports Council in particular (e.g. anti doping; code of
ethics; participation; performance and excellence)
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● In order for the Technical Development Plan to be
implemented the importance of working together
towards a common goal needs to be recognised at all
levels of the FAI
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● Volunteers and professionals must work together in
a spirit of openness, respect and mutual trust
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● The structure needs to promote open and twoway communication and effective linkages between
national, regional and local levels within the game
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● There needs to be an agreed, clear, effective and
cohesive structure within the Technical Department
in order to implement the Technical Development
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● The FAI needs to take a strong leadership role in
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● The FAI should provide a clear framework for
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Figure 1. Player Centered Decision Making
● The development of Irish players should be guided by
best practice and the principles of long term player
development
PHILOSOPHY
As a result of this framework the guiding philosophy of the FAI will be;
“... to help all players fulfil their full potential by respecting them as individuals with their distinctive needs and talents, to
assist them to develop their athletic abilities, build on their soccer skills and maximise their tactical awareness.
The FAI will strive to ensure that all decisions made are in the interests of players and the development of the game in
14 Ireland.”
Section 2.3 FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
Technical Development Plan Process
The origins of the Technical Development Plan date as far back as 1998, when Brian Kerr was appointed by the FAI
as Technical Director. At the request of the Association, a major remit for the Technical Director was the
formulation of a national plan for the development of soccer, with particular emphasis on the underage game. Prior
to completing his term as Technical Director, Brian Kerr made considerable progress and brought the plan to a
significant stage of development. This work has now been taken on to completion by the new Technical Director,
Packie Bonner.
The development of the plan has taken place under the guidance of a Technical Development Plan Working Group.
This Committee initially consisted of Brian Kerr, Packie Bonner, Richard Fahy, Noel O’Reilly, Brian McCarthy, Sean
McCaffrey,Trevor Lovell, Michael Tattersall and Jimmy McDermott.
Dr Pat Duffy, Director of the National Coaching and Training Centre, acted as Chairman of the group and from
the outset outlined the need for a core set of principles which would guide the development group in the
completion of the plan.
These core principles included;
Consultation
The need to consult with all stakeholders in order to ensure that all views are considered and where possible
represented in the plan
A people-centred focus
The need to concentrate on meeting the needs of all people involved in the game but maintain an ultimate focus on
the development of better players.This people centred focus will be based on a fair and ethical approach at all levels
of the game; a friendly and cooperative approach from FAI staff; building confidence; willingness to share ideas; hard
work; humility and listening
Participation
Reinforcement of the principal objective of the FAI, which is to maximise the number of people involved in the
game of football in the Republic of Ireland
Excellence
The need to support Irish players and teams in reaching their full potential in national and international competition
with the support of quality coaching and technical support
Quality
A desire to improve and develop the game at all levels
Customer service
A desire to improve upon the provision of services and to pass on knowledge and experience which meet the
needs of people involved in the game at local, regional and national levels
Social responsibility
Realisation of the FAI’s responsibility to provide an alternative lifestyle for young people in disadvantaged areas
Section 2.3
Recognition
Recognition of the massive work carried out by volunteers and professionals within the game
Equality
To ensure that underdeveloped areas of the game e.g. women, schools, players with disabilities will receive adequate
support and services
Sustainability
An essential element of development is recognition of the responsibility to sustain the development of the game for
future generations
Accountability
The achievement of optimum benefit from available resources
Partnership
Recognition that the development of the game depends on a partnership approach from all sectors of the game and
society
Later, in order to widen the range of views represented at the table the Planning Committee was extended to include
Jack Carthy (SFAI), Brian Fitzmorris (SFAI), Niamh O’Donoghue (WFAI), Donal Conway (FAIS), Dennis Cruise (Junior
Football), Ian Barclay (Intermediate Football), Brendan Dillon (Eircom League), Pat Kelly (FAI Referees Department), John
Delaney (FAI Honorary Treasurer) Gerry McAnaney (Defence Forces),Terry McCauley (Irish Universities) and Des Casey,
former FAI Honorary Secretary and UEFA representative.
In order to ensure that the Plan addressed the needs of football at all levels, 14 Regional Consultation workshops were
organised, with over 1,000 attendees.These workshops sought the views of football people, at grassroots level, on how the
game should be developed for the new millennium. (Appendix 1 outlines the venues for the consultation meetings.
Appendix 2 provides a list of attendees. The main outcomes/feedback from the workshops is provided in Appendix 3.)
The Executive and Board of Management of the FAI were kept appraised of the progress of the Plan at the appropriate
stages. Key Committees of the Association were consulted as well as experienced coaches and managers; former national
and international level players; regional development officers and coach education personnel. External agencies such as the
Irish Sports Council (ISC); the National Coaching and Training Centre (NCTC); educational interests and others were also
consulted.
A final draft was developed for consideration at a summit of administrators and coaches in January 2004. Following the
summit, this draft was subjected to final approval by the FAI Council and Board of Management prior to its publication.
Section 2.3 FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
Appointment of
Technical Director
Initial Consultations with Coaches, Managers, Key
Personnel, Tutors, RDO’s and others
Establishment of
Planning Group
FAI Officer Board
FAI Board of Management
Football Development Committee
Preparation and
Presentation of
Draft Plan
14 Consultation Workshops
Submissions
Analysis of Responses
Consultation Draft
End of March 2003
Internal Consultation
Meetings
Officer Board
Board of Management
SFAI
WFAI
FAIS
Junior
Intermediate
FAI Committees
National League
External Agencies
Irish Sports Council
Government
Extension of
Planning
Committee
Preparation
of Draft for
Technical
Summit
FAI Summit
January 2004
Approval by
FAI Council
and Board of
Management
Launch of
Plan
June 2004
Implementation
of Plan
Section 2.4 FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
Mission Statement
The Technical Development Plan is the vehicle through
which an agreed, effective and integrated coaching,
training and competitive framework will be achieved.
Under the leadership of the Football Association of
Ireland the provision of more enjoyable and
fulfilling opportunities and pathways for all
people involved in the game will be achieved
through the delivery of high quality programmes,
structures and facilities.
This Mission Statement will provide a clear focus
and a changed landscape for Irish football
resulting in the delivery of the following
outcomes:
●
More players participating in quality football programmes which are matched to their age and stage of development
●
More coaches that are better educated to deal with the age and stage related needs of their players
●
Clear pathways for all players, coaches, referees and administrators within the game
●
A unified structure linking club / school, county, provincial and national levels supported by full time personnel at
county, provincial and national levels
●
A revised competition structure to meet the needs of players at each stage of their development
●
An emerging talent programme linking into all levels of the game and in particular to underage / youth clubs
and clubs in the national league
●
Sustained success at international level
●
An enhanced National League
●
High quality regional centres and a national centre in place
●
A fully reorganised, resourced and professionally run Technical Department
Section 2.5 FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
Specific Objectives and Areas of
Development Focus
The following specific objectives and areas of focus have been identified to increase playing, coaching and administration standards in the game of soccer in Ireland during the next five years:
1
2
1. Define the philosophy and pathways for the development of Irish players:
● Establish a clear philosophy and pathway to guide programmes, practice and decision making into
the future
● Develop a comprehensive player manual which encompasses the FAI player development
philosophy
● Provide and implement clear guidelines, based on sound principles, on the balance between training
and competition at the different stages of development
● Undertake a full review of the existing competition model and implement the recommendations of
same
2. Increase the quality and quantity of coaches, referees and administrators
through an extensive programme of education, training and resources at local,
regional and national level :
● Devise, re-design and fully implement all of the education courses outlined in the Technical
Development Plan
● Further align the qualifications of coaches to UEFA and NCTC standards
● Increase the number and distribution of educational opportunities around the country, with a
strong emphasis on local needs and delivery
● Raise the status of football qualifications and provide opportunities for continuous professional
development.
3
3. Increase grassroots participation:
● Increase participation through quality grassroots programmes relating to,
– Children
– Referees
– Clubs, Leagues and Schools
– Administrators
– Women’s football
– Parents
– Players with special needs
– Socially excluded members of society
– The retention of players from adolescent
through to the adult game
4
4. Provide a clear development structure for emerging talent:
● Develop in partnership with relevant affiliates an Emerging Talent Development Programme for 9 12 year olds, 13 - 16 year olds and 17 – 21 year olds
● Develop appropriate competition structures which fully align with the Emerging Talent
Development Programme
● Put in place an agreed policy for the movement of underage players
● Put in place an agreed compensation mechanism for under-age clubs concerning the movement of
their players to the semi-professional and professional game
Section 2.5
5. Create structured links between underage football, FAI emerging talent
programme and the semi-professional / professional game in Ireland, UK and
Europe:
5
6
7
● Implement existing regulations concerning the movement of young players to semi-professional and
professional clubs
● Establish an advisory and monitoring service for players / coaches in the areas of career and
education
● Put in place a national academy structure that provides training, education, competition and advice
to Emerging High Performance players prior to and during the early stages of their semi professional
and professional careers
● Optimise the choices of players so that they can pursue the most appropriate playing opportunities
for themselves in the National League, UK and Europe
● Establish and implement models of best practice in partnership with organisations involved in the
identification and representation of talented players
6. Enhance the standards of the National League against European benchmarks:
● Assist National League Clubs to adopt and implement the UEFA club licence Technical guidelines
● To create a pathway within the National League structure that caters for emerging talent
● Improve the Technical Department’s service to all managers and coaches within the National
League
● Improve the competitiveness of National League Clubs in European Competitions and the standing
of the National League in the UEFA International Club Competition Coefficient
7. Achieve and sustain international success:
● Continue to adopt a planned and progressive approach to international training and competition
schedules
● Maintain competitiveness and standing in UEFA/FIFA rankings
● Continue to develop the capacities (technical, tactical, mental, physical, personal, lifestyle) of players
at underage international level in order to maximise the possibility of the international teams
qualifying and competing in major tournaments
● Develop world class sports science, medical and technological back-up systems so that all
International teams continue to achieve success at major international tournaments
● Constantly monitor European and World trends within the game and within sport
● Extend player recruitment policies on a global basis, while promoting a hunger, passion and competitiveness to play for Ireland
Section 2.5 FOOTBALL FOR THE FUTURE
8. Provide guidelines and a framework for the development of quality facilities at
local, regional and national Level:
8
9
● Analyse existing facility provision
● Implement facility grading criteria at local, regional and national levels
● Map out future facility requirements with an emphasis on quality and the standardisation of facilities
and equipment
● Work in partnership with Government, local authorities, clubs, schools and colleges to maximise
the range of quality facilities available
● Devise agreements between the FAI and facility operators for the use of training facilities for the
delivery of FAI programmes
● The establishment of Regional Football Centres and a high quality National Football Coaching and
Training Centre
9. To put in place a structure to implement the Technical Development Plan:
● Re- organise the Technical Department to deliver the objectives of the Technical Development Plan
in an effective manner
● To establish procedures for monitoring and evaluating the progress of the Technical Development
Plan
● Establish County / Regional Technical Fora to assist in the implementation of the key objectives of
the plan
● Facilitate clubs, leagues and affiliates in strengthening their structures
● Align administration and competition structures with the goals outlined in the Football
Development Plan
● Resource the implementation of the plan, through a combination of FAI, Government, commercial,
sponsorship and local investment
● Ensure that the Technical Development Plan is a core element of the FAI’s mission for the future
Section 3.1 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
Player Development Pathway
A great deal of voluntary effort has been expended, over many decades, for the development of football in Ireland.
This dedication and selflessness has helped to produce many outstanding players at amateur, professional and
international levels. It has also ensured that a wide network of clubs, schools and leagues have been built up
providing many opportunities for all ages to play the game.
However, taking into account the speed of change within the European and World game and the recent successes
of so-called less developed football nations at club and international level it is clear that a coherent, structured, and
player-centred development pathway needs to be put in place for the Irish game..
At present, from grassroots through to Elite Youth, National League and International Football, there is NO
DEFINABLE pathway guiding players to a level of football which will fulfil their potential, and retain them in the
game for life. Regional differences merely highlight the lack of consistent, measurable, and democratic opportunities
for players to develop to their maximum.
Players at all levels and ages need opportunities to fulfil their potential, and enjoy the game as much as possible. At
present Irish players, compared to their European counterparts, are not afforded sufficient opportunities to attain a
level of preparation, training, competition and required lifestyle which will challenge enthuse and motivate them to
further improvement and career advancement.
The pace of modern day life in Ireland has increased dramatically in the last 10 years and because of this more
emphasis needs to be placed on the mental, personal and lifestyle elements of a player’s development. From a
football perspective, more attention needs to be paid to the technical, tactical and physical development of players.
Younger players need to be provided with the opportunity to develop their skills and decision making in both
practice and competition situations. Specific game formats should be adopted for the different age groups and the
right balance between practice and competition achieved.The age and gender profile of some leagues is unbalanced
and overtly competitive at too early a stage in a player’s development.The structures for the development of players
with special needs must also be developed.
Research has shown that the long-term development of players is a process that can take ten years or more and
the programmes and structures of the FAI must recognise the requirements and phases of this process.
Section 3.1
In the recently published consultation paper “Building Pathways in Irish Sport” the
National Coaching and Training Centre stated:
“Scientific research has concluded that it takes eight to twelve years of
training for a player/athlete to reach elite levels. This is called the ten year
rule or 10,000 hour rule, which translates to slightly more than three hours
practice daily for ten years. Unfortunately, parents and coaches in many
sports still approach training with an attitude best characterised as ‘peaking
by Friday’, where a short term approach is taken to training and performance
with an over emphasis on immediate results. We now know that a long-term
commitment to practice and training is required to produce elite
players/athletes in all sports.
A specific and well-planned practice, training, competition and recovery
regime will ensure optimum development throughout a Player/athlete’s
career. Ultimately, sustained success comes from training and performing well
over the long term rather than winning in the short term. There is no
shortcut to success in athletic preparation. Rushing competition will always
result in shortcomings in physical, technical, tactical, mental, personal and
lifestyle capacities”.
Based on this framework, fun, fundamental motor skills and soccer specific skill development should be strongly
emphasised at an early age. Competition for younger children needs to be balanced with the need to develop skills.
Presently in Ireland there is an over emphasis on competition to the detriment of opportunities to practice. If younger
players are to develop their skills and decision making, they need to be exposed to enjoyable practices to develop their
capacities on a regular basis.There is a need to review existing competition structures to ensure that the right balance
is achieved between training and competition at the different age groups.
The FAI in consultation with the NCTC and international player/athlete development expert Dr. Istvan Balyi have
developed a six phase model of long term player development (see figure 3). The main elements of these phases are
presented below in a modified form;
Phase 1 – The FUNdamental Phase
Age: Males 6 to 9/Females 6 to 8 years
The main objective of this phase is to learn all the fundamental movement skills using a well-structured, positive and
fun approach. Soccer skills should be introduced, with an emphasis on fun, skill development and small-sided games.
Appropriate and correct running, jumping and throwing techniques are taught using the ABC’s of athletics. Participation
in as many sports as possible is encouraged. The development of these fundamental movement skills will contribute
significantly to future at achievements.
Phase 2 – The Learning to Train Phase
Age: Males 9 to 12/Females 8 to 11 years
The main objective of this phase is to learn the specific soccer skills in conjunction with FUNdamental skills from a
range of other sports.These skills form the cornerstone of all player development. An emphasis on technical
18 development should be a key part of this phase, with the 7 v 7 game being introduced, progressing to 9 v 9
Section 3.1 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
Phase 3 – The Training to Train Phase
Age: Males 12 to 16/Females 11 to 15 Years
The main objective of this phase is to consolidate basic soccer skills, introduce the basic elements of tactics and to
address the two critical periods of physical development namely the aerobic base and strength of players. It should
be noted that both aerobic and strength trainability is dependent on maturation levels and not solely chronological
age.
Phase 4 – The Training to Compete Phase
Age: Males 16 to 18/Females 15 to 17 years
The main objective of this phase is to optimise fitness preparation and soccer, individual and position-specific skills
as well as performance. More advanced tactical elements of the game are introduced. During this phase, high
intensity individual, and position-specific training is provided to players. Soccer specific skills are performed under a
variety of competitive conditions during training. Special emphasis is placed on optimum preparation by modelling
training and competition.
Phase 5 – The Training to Win Phase
Age: Males 18yrs and older/Females 17 yrs and older
This final phase of player preparation aims to maximise fitness preparation and soccer, individual and positionspecific skills as well as performance. All of the player’s capacities are now fully established and players are trained
to peak for major competitions. Training is characterised by high intensity and relatively high volume with frequent
periods of rest.
Phase 6 – The Retainment Phase
This phase refers to the activities performed after a player has retired from competition permanently. The aim of
this phase is to retain players for coaching, sport administration, officiating or recreational participation in the game.
For semi professional and professional players this phase will include career planning and transition.
Section 3.1
Soccer Long-term Player Development Model (draft)
Figure 3
Training to win
Retirement /
retainment
Training to compete
Training to train
Learning to train
FUNdamental
The six phases of LTPD in Soccer
1. FUNdamental - build overall motor skills
2. Learning to train - learn all fundamental sports skills, including soccer skills
3. Training to train - build ‘the engine’ and consolidate soccer specific skills
4. Training to compete - fine tune ‘the engine’, position specific skills and
performance
5. Training to win - maximise performance, position specific skills and ‘engine’
6. Retirement/Retainment - adjustment/retain players/athletes for
coaching/administration
Section 3.2 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
Player Capacities along the Pathway
ONE of the key principles of the Long Term Player Development is that the player faces different demands
at each phase of his/her development. The development model outlines these demands and provides an
indication of the capacities that need to be developed by players if they are to successfully negotiate each
phase.
A classification of the capacities required is outlined in figure 4 below. This classification takes a holistic
view of player development and includes technical, tactical, mental, physical, lifestyle and personal capacities
(NCTC).
Emotion
Figure 4
Tactical
Character
Training and
Performance
Technical
Environment
Mental
Physical
Within each of these capacities are a variety of sub-capacities which also need to be catered for. It must
be noted that deficiencies in any of the capacities will adversely affect performance in training and in
competition.
Figure 5 provides an example of how the physical capacity
is made up of various sub capacities
Disease
Disease
Injury
Injury
Over
Over
Training
Training
Aerobic
Aerobic
Central
Central
Figure 5
Pulmonary
Pulmonary
Anerobic
Anerobic
Lactic
Lactic
Health
Peripheral
Peripheral
Energy
Systems
Oxygen
Transport
Anerobic
Anerobic
Alactic
Alactic
Explosive
Explosive
Physical
Recovery
Recovery
Power
Rest /
Fatigue
Speed
Speed
Repair
Repair
Strength
Specific
Specific
Nutrition
Sleep
Sleep
Relative
Relative
Fuels
Fuels
Nutrients
Nutrients
Absolute
Absolute
Hydration
Hydration
Appendix 4 outlines in draft form the key capacities to be developed at each phase of the development of
the player.
It is envisaged that these capacities will be subject to final review by national and international experts
before their adoption and publication.This model will form the basis of a comprehensive Player
Development Manual.
Section 3.2 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
Actions are proposed in the areas of organisational structure; player development
model; player development manual; competition structures;
MAIN ACTIONS
RESPONSIBILITY
Organisational Structure
● Establish a Player Development Unit
within the Technical Department
Technical Director and Player Development
Manager (to be appointed)
Player Development Model
● Player pathway and relevant capacities to
be defined at all ages with respect to
technical, tactical, physical, mental, personal
and lifestyle development and reviewed
every 3 years by expert coaches nationally
and internationally
Set up a working group to include external
advisers to establish a comprehensive
statement of capacities at each stage of the
pathway
Player Development Manual
● Publish and launch the Irish Player
Development Manual dealing with the
technical, tactical, physical, mental, personal
and lifestyle capacities at each phase of the
pathway.
Technical Director to appoint editorial team
to research, write and design the player
development manual
Competition Structures
● Review the National Competitive
framework at local, regional and national
levels – with sound statistical information to
predicate future decision making
CEO and Technical Director to set up a small
working group to include representatives
from affiliates and the national league to
review all competitions and to present
findings and recommendations
● Restructure the competition framework
inline with the Player Development Model
and Emerging Talent Development
Programme
Competition Review Working group
Section 3.2
Grassroots Football
INCREASING participation in the game at all levels will be a major objective of the Plan.The FAI has a number of
quality grassroots programmes throughout the country, many of which are the envy of National Governing Bodies
in Ireland and National Associations in other countries.
In order to maintain and increase efficiency in this area it is proposed to establish a Grassroots and Regional
Development unit within the Technical Department which will be overseen by a Senior Manager
Specific targets will be set, in the following areas
●
●
●
●
The Children’s Game
The Men’s Game
The Women’s Game
Football for All
Each of these areas will now be dealt with in turn.
Section 3.2-1 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
The Children’s Game
FOOTBALL is a great game for children. It is fun, develops a range of skills and can be played anywhere.The FAI
needs to continue to encourage children to take part and to give them quality experiences which are right for their
age and stage of development. This will lead to more long - term and lifelong involvement in the game. The
environment in which children play the game must be safe, fun and challenging and all practices must comply with
the FAI’s Code of Ethics for Children’s Soccer.
The massive growth in interest that has occurred within the game presents both challenges and opportunities for
the FAI. Access to appropriate coaching and training, allied with appropriate competitive activities are crucial to
ensure that children can have fun and develop their skills in a planned, quality and structured fashion. According to
feedback from the consultation process there is an overemphasis on competition and not enough emphasis on
practice at underage level and this is to the detriment of the further development of quality players.With this issue
in mind it is essential that a detailed review of all competitive opportunities for children is undertaken.
The proposed pathway model for soccer strongly emphasises fundamental motor skills and sport specific skills at
the fundamental and learning to train phases. This means that children up to 12 years should play the game in an
environment where fun, general and specific motor skills are the top priority.
Actions are proposed in the areas of player development manual, coach education, structures, competition, participation and game format.
Section 3.2-1
MAIN ACTIONS
RESPONSIBILITY
Player Development Manual
● A Player Development Manual for use by coaches
working with children outlining the key technical,
tactical, physical, mental and lifestyle capacities,
practices and competitions at the various stages of a
child’s development will be produced.
Technical Director to appoint editorial team to
research, write and design the player development
manual
Coach Education
● To develop a Coach Education Course structure
that caters for the needs of coaches working with
young people and takes into account the recommendations outlined in the Player Development Manual
Coach Education Working Group
Structures, competition and game format
● To implement the recommendations outlined by
the Competitions Review Working Group in relation
to the organisation of competitive opportunities for
children
FAI, SFAI, WFAI, FAIS and Technical Department
● To put in place an agreed policy in relation to the
movement of players nationally and internationally
FAI, SFAI, WFAI and National League
● To implement the specific game formats on a
national basis outlined by the Competitions Review
Working Group
SFAI, WFAI, FAIS, Junior and Intermediate Leagues
and Technical Department
● To encourage all existing leagues to operate girls
sections within their various structures
FAI, SFAI, FAIS and WFAI
Participation
● To implement the Buntús Soccer Specific
Programme in 1500 School, Club and Community
Settings
Technical Department, The Irish Sports Council, Local
Sports Partnerships, FAIS
● To co-ordinate and implement high quality,
Summer Soccer Schools which cater for 30,000
children annually by 2008
Technical Department, SFAI, WFAI, FAIS.
● To promote Futsal as the official indoor football
game for children and to facilitate the delivery of
competitive Futsal in 10 leagues by 2008
Technical Department, SFAI, WFAI, FAIS.
● To implement the inner city Futsal Programme in
80 venues annually by 2008
Technical Department, LSP’s, SFAI, WFAI and Local
Authorities
31
Section 3.2-2 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
The Men’s Game
ALTHOUGH soccer is already played by a large number of men there
are areas of the country where football is not strongly established. This
is due to a lack of adequate structures, resources and facilities.
In today’s world of increasing recreational choices, football will have to
offer more attractive opportunities to people in order to entice them
to play the game.
A vibrant men’s game at junior and intermediate level is central to
providing quality pathways and lifelong involvement within the sport.
There is a need to review existing competition structures within the
men’s game in order to assess the level of participation and to outline
any weaknesses that may be apparent and where further prospects for
the development of the men’s game exist.
Actions for the development of the men’s game will be taken in the
following areas; participation, player development, coach education,
competition structures and retention.
MAIN ACTIONS
RESPONSIBILITY
Participation
● Undertake an analysis of existing structures and
participation within men’s football
Competitions Review Working Group
● To promote Futsal as the official adult five-a-side
game in Ireland and to create appropriate
competitive opportunities for participants
Player Development
● The development of a Player Development Manual
for use by coaches working with junior and
intermediate players outlining the key technical,
tactical, physical, personal, mental and lifestyle
capacities at their stage of development.
Coach Education
● To develop a Coach Education Course structure
that caters for the needs of coaches working with
junior and intermediate players and takes into
account the recommendations outlined in the Player
Development Manual
Competition Structures
● To implement the recommendations outlined by
the Competitions Review Working Group in relation
to the organisation of competitive opportunities at
local and regional level
Retention
● To actively target men to get involved in coaching,
refereeing and administration through a professionally planned promotional drive
FAI Technical Department, Provincial Associations,
Junior and Intermediate Leagues
Technical Director to appoint editorial team to
research, write and design the player development
manual
Coach Education Working Group
FAI Technical Department, FAI Marketing
department, Provincial Associations, Junior and
Intermediate Leagues
FAI Technical Department, Marketing Department,
Provincial Associations, Junior and Intermediate
Leagues
Section 3.2-3
The Women’s Game
WOMEN’S football, whether for social reasons or even prejudice has historically had a restricted opportunity to develop in Ireland. Currently the number
of registered women players is approximately 10,000. However, a far greater
number participate in an informal way.The FAI believes that many girls and
women would like to play football.The challenge for the FAI, therefore, is to
boost girl’s and women’s participation in football by putting in place attractive
structures, programmes and resources and to ensure that adequate pathways
are easily accessible.
Actions are proposed in the following areas; participation, player
development, coach education, retention, structures and competition.
MAIN ACTIONS
Participation
● Provide more opportunities for girls to play
football at the FUNdamental and Leaning to Train
phase by implementing a policy of positive discrimination in relation to the delivery of FAI Grassroots
Participation Programmes e.g. Buntús, Summer
Soccer Schools (see Children’s Game)
● To undertake a professionally planned promotional
campaign aimed at encouraging more women to get
involved in football
Player Development
● The development of a Player Development Manual
for use by coaches working with women outlining
the key technical, tactical, physical, personal, mental
and lifestyle capacities at the various stages of their
development
Coach Education
● To develop a Coach Education Course structure
that caters for the needs of coaches working with
women and takes into account the recommendations
outlined in the Player Development Manual
Structures and Competitions
● To implement the recommendations outlined by
the Competitions Review Working Group in relation
to the organisation of competitive opportunities for
women
● To encourage existing structures to embrace the
development of the women’s game (see Club /
League Structures section)
Retention
● To actively target women to get involved in
coaching, refereeing and administration through a
professionally planned promotional drive
RESPONSIBILITY
FAI Technical Department, WFAI, SFAI, FAIS, LSP’s,
Irish Sports Council
Technical Department, FAI Marketing Department,
WFAI, Department of Health,
Irish Sports Council
Technical Director to appoint editorial team to
research, write and design the player development
manual
Coach Education Working Group
Competitions Review Working Group
FAI, WFAI and other affiliates and leagues
WFAI, FAI Technical Department and Marketing
Department
33
Section 3.2-4 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
Football for all
THE FAI has taken a leading step in the appointment of a full-time Development Officer with
responsibility for facilitating the creation of a clear pathway to cater for players with a variety
of disabilities.
The Football for All programme, as it has become known, is made up of players from the
following sports groups, Special Olympics Ireland, Irish Deaf Sports, Irish Blind Sports, Cerebral
Palsy Ireland and the Irish Special Schools Sports Council.
Before the appointment of the Development Officer, these groups were operating in isolation
with little support from the FAI and little or no access to existing structures and facilities.
The FAI recognises that certain communities start from a disadvantaged position and may
need proactive assistance from the Association to gain access to all of the opportunities that
exist in football.
Actions are proposed in the following areas; participation, player development, coach
education, structures and competition and high performance
MAIN ACTIONS
Participation
● Provide more opportunities for people with
disabilities to play football as children through a
policy of positive discrimination in the delivery of FAI
Grassroots Participation Programmes e.g. Buntús,
Summer Soccer Schools, workshops, clinics and Blitz
days.
Player Development
● To establish a Football For All working group to
develop all aspects of football for players with
disabilities
● The development of a Player Development Manual
for use by coaches working with players with
disabilities outlining the key technical, tactical,
physical, personal, mental and lifestyle capacities at
the various stages of their development.
● To look at the possibility of hosting international
Competitions in order to promote, recruit and
educate new participants through the showcasing of
games
Coach Education
● To develop a Coach Education Course structure
that caters for the needs of coaches working with
people with specific disabilities and takes into
account the recommendations outlined in the Player
Development Manual
Structures and Competitions
● To establish appropriate competition structures for
groups so that they are provided with meaningful
experiences and challenges
High Performance
● To provide financial and technical assistance to
National Teams preparing for International
Competition
RESPONSIBILITY
FAI Technical Department, LSP’s, Special Olympics Ireland,
Irish Deaf Sports, Irish Blind Sports, Cerebral Palsy Sports
Ireland, The Irish Special Schools Sports Council and Les
Autres.
Technical Department, Special Olympics Ireland, Irish Deaf
Sports, Irish Blind Sports, Cerebral Palsy Sports Ireland, The
Irish Special Schools Sports Council and Les Autres.
Football for All Working group and Technical Director to
appoint editorial team to research, write and design the
publication of the player development manual
Football for All Working Group
Football for All Working Group and Coach Education
Working Group
Competitions Review Working Group, Football for All
Working Group
FAI, Government and Technical Department
Section 3.3 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
Emerging Talent
AT present there is no consistent, integrated and structured coaching and development programme for the most talented young Irish players.
What is in place is a representative squad structure which is more advanced in some parts of the country than in others.The quality and
quantity of the training sessions for these squads also varies greatly.
There is a need to put in place a coaching and development programme which can overcome the gaps in the system, thus allowing young
players to fulfil their potential.
For example, during the month of June, for one week, the SFAI run a very well organised Under 13 competition known as the Kennedy
Cup. This competition provides a showcase for every league in the country. Prior to the competition players in each team come together for
specialised training sessions and it is evident that teams who have been together over a longer period achieve better results.
Out of the approximately 600 players that play only 40 - 50 are selected for the Under 15 national squad the following year. This effectively
leaves the remainder without a structured, monitored development programme in order to continue their progress.
This international squad is further reduced to approximately 25 players and these players normally make up the bulk of the international
squads for the remainder of the underage international competitions.
Actions are proposed in the areas of research and structure, competition, talent development, Career Guidance, County and Regional,
Emerging Talent Programme, National Academy Programme.
MAIN ACTIONS
Research and Structure
● Appoint working group to research, consult and
produce a draft Emerging Talent programme for
male and female players
● Pilot the programme
● Put in place a database to monitor all players
within the Emerging Talent Programme
● Research the feasibility of an educational element
for participants in the emerging talent programme
Competition
● Establish relevant competitive opportunities in the
context of the proposed Competitions Review and
the Emerging Talent Programme
Talent Development
● To establish a transparent system for the identification and selection of talented players for the
emerging talent programme
● Establish and implement models of best practice in
partnership with organisations involved in the identification and representation of talented players
Career Guidance
● Establish a Football Career Education Programme
for players involved in the Emerging Talent
Programme, National League and players operating
abroad
County and Regional Emerging Talent Programmes
● Establish a structured emerging talent programme
on a county/regional basis closely linked to WFAI,
SFAI, National League Clubs and a National Academy
Programme.
● Devise and implement a development programme
for elite emerging talent
RESPONSIBILITY
Technical Director, Player Development Manager,
SFAI, WFAI and National League
FAI Technical Department
FAI Physical Fitness Advisor and Player Development
Manager
Emerging Talent Working Group and FAI Education
Co-ordinator
Competitions Review Working Group, the SFAI,
WFAI and Emerging Talent Working Group
Player Development Manager
Player Development Manager and Career Guidance
Officer
Technical Director and Career Guidance Officer
Player Development Manager, National League
Clubs, Leagues, SFAI, WFAI
Technical Director, Player Development Manager,
High Performance Manager
35
Section 3.4 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
High Performance
IRELAND has justifiably gained a strong reputation internationally, as a result of
its performances at under-age and senior level. Currently the Senior
International team is ranked 14th in the world.
It is essential that this ranking is maintained and, if possible, improved upon to
ensure top seeding for future qualification campaigns.
Despite this record, the technical staff associated with all of the teams
recognise that there is a need to work on the development of the full range of
capacities that are needed for success at international level. In particular, there
are deficiencies in the way many players have developed in the technical,
tactical, physical and lifestyle areas.
A successful Senior International team generates the main source of income
for the FAI, therefore, non-qualification has major implications on future
income. Therefore, it is imperative that sufficient revenues continue to be reinvested into the development of future international players.
Actions are proposed in the following areas; Planning, Support Systems, Player
Recruitment, Performance Standards.
MAIN ACTIONS
Planning
● Establish a High Performance Group to co-ordinate
aspects of physical, medical and psychological
preparation for all international teams
● Adopt a planned and progressive approach to
international training and competition schedules for
all international teams taking into account long-term
player development principles
● Review on a regular basis performance levels and
international best practice
Support Systems
● Appoint a full time physical conditioning expert to
co-ordinate all aspects of physical preparation
● Ensure that the support systems as recommended
by the High Performance group are implemented
National Academy Emerging Talent Programme
● Provide strong competition and advice to
emerging High Performance players prior to and
during the early stages of their senior Professional
career
Player Recruitment
● Update the database of current and potential
international players including specific information
on performance and measurement
● Extend player recruitment policies on a global basis
to identify talented players of Irish descent
RESPONSIBILITY
CEO, Senior International Manager and Technical
Director
All International Managers
High Performance Group and International
Managers
CEO and High Performance Group
International Team Managers
Technical Director, Player Development Manager
International Department, Physical Conditioning
Expert, Player Development Manager
International Department and International
Managers
Section 4 SERVICES, TRAINING AND EDUCATION
THE FAI is fully committed to supporting the development of the game in Ireland. In order to complete this task
the network of volunteers and professionals who have the knowledge and skills to encourage development must be
further increased and supported. Coaches, referees and administrators play key roles in introducing players to the
game, officiating and organising. Parents have a key role in encouraging children to develop their full potential.
While the Association has provided significant educational opportunities for people involved in coaching and
refereeing through its Coach Education and Referee Development Programme it has not catered for the educational
needs of administrators working in clubs and leagues or parents.
An opportunity now exists, through the implementation of the Technical Development Plan to fully support the
educational requirements of the game’s volunteer and professional workforce. This will ensure that those involved
in the game at all levels are equipped with the necessary skills and best practices to significantly improve standards
within the game.
The Association, therefore, will put in place a new structure to co-ordinate the development, delivery, marketing
and promotion of all aspects of its educational business. In the future, more courses, conferences and resources in
even more subject areas covering every area of the game will be delivered.
The FAI will ensure that all of its educational activities are designed and delivered at local, regional and national
level in a consistent, transparent, modern, creative and challenging way. This will ensure that all participants can
maximise their potential.
MAIN ACTIONS
RESPONSIBILITY
● Establish FAI Education Unit within the Technical
Department
CEO and Technical Director
● Appoint FAI Education Manager
CEO and Technical Director
● Devise a business plan for developing coordinating and implementing FAI education
programmes
FAI Education Manager, FAI Marketing Department
● Commence a programme of implementation for
FAI Education Programmes
FAI Education Manager and FAI Education Staff.
Section 3.3 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
Coaching and Coach Education
COACHES play a key role in introducing players to the game.They must also be in a position to provide the necessary coaching and personal
skills required to develop players to their full potential.The FAI currently operates courses from introductory level to UEFA A level and has
approximately 10,000 registered coaches.
It is incumbent upon the FAI to provide more encouragement, support and opportunities to ensure that coaches working with players at all
levels hold a recognised FAI coaching qualification.
The FAI can do this by increasing the number of courses throughout the country, making sure that the timing and length of the course suits the
participants and that the delivery of the courses is of the highest quality.
A further imperative for the FAI is to ensure that all Coach Education courses are fully aligned with the Player Pathway that is currently under
development (see figure 4).
Over the lifespan of this plan the FAI will deliver the following actions in relation to Coach Education.
A Coach Education Working Group has already been formed and many of the actions outlined are already underway. From
this work an outline Coach Education Ladder has been devised and is presented below in Figure 6.
Level 4
UEFA Pro Licence
Level 3
UEFA ‘A’ Licence
Level 2
UEFA ‘B’ Licence
Level 1
Intro
GK ‘A’ Licence
Youth Cert
Senior Cert
GK ‘B’ Licence
Kick Start 2
Senior Intro
GK Intro
Kick Start 1
NCTC Levels
MAIN ACTIONS
Coach Education Programme
● Establish a Coach Education Working Group to oversee the implementation of the Coach Education Programme
● Undertake an assessment of current coaches and tutors operating throughout the game
● Undertake a detailed review of the Existing Coach Education Ladder including an assessment of all existing content and make changes where necessary
● Begin development of new courses and workshops
● Evaluate and where necessary update existing organisational procedures in relation to the delivery of all courses
● Evaluate current assessment procedures and make changes where necessary to ensure complete transparency
● Update and develop existing and additional resource materials for coaches operating at all levels
● Outline specific targets for the Coach Education Programme
● Establish an advisory group to provide guidance and assistance
Monitoring and Review
● Continuously monitor international best practice in relation to Coach Education
● Continuously monitor and review the delivery of the Coach Education Programme
Section 3.4 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
Figure 7. Links between Player Pathway and Coach Education Programme
PRO Licence
UEFA A
Senior
UEFA GK
Licence
Coaching
Workshops
Coaching
Practice
Train
to
Win
Coaching
Practice
Train
to
Win
Senior Cert
Boys
18 – 21yrs
Girls
17 – 21yrs
Boys
16 – 18yrs
Girls
15 – 17yrs
Boys
12 – 16yrs
Girls
11– 15yrs
Boys
9 – 12yrs
Girls
8 – 11yrs
Boys
6 – 9yrs
Girls
6 – 8yrs
UEFA ‘A’ and ‘B’
GK ‘A’ Licence
Coaching
Workshops
Senior Cert
UEFA ‘B’
GK ‘B’ Licence
Coaching
Workshops
Coaching
Practice
Senior Intro
Youth Cert
UEFA ‘B’
GK ‘B’ Licence
Intro to GK
Coaching
Workshops
Coaching
Practice
Train
to
Train
Youth Cert
UEFA ‘B’
Intro to GK
Coaching
Workshops
Introduction to
Coaching
Kick Start 2
Youth Cert
Learn
to
Train
UEFA ‘B’
Intro to GK
Coaching
Workshops
Movement
and Fun
Kick Start 1 & 2
Youth Cert
RESPONSIBILITY
Technical Director
Coach Education Working Group
Coach Education Working Group
Coach Education Working Group
Coach Education Working Group, Technical Director, FAI Education Manager, Coach Education Co-ordinator
Coach Education Working Group, Technical Director, FAI Education Manager, Coach Education Co-ordinator
Coach Education Working Group,
Technical Director, FAI Education Manager, Coach Education Co-ordinator
Technical Director, FAI Education Manager, Coach Education Co-ordinator
Coach Education Working Group
Coach Education Working Group
Train
to
Compete
FUNdamentals
Section 4.2 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
Referees
REFEREES perform a vital role in the game and with the growth in the popularity of football particularly amongst
women and children, the demand for match officials is continuously increasing.
The FAI currently have approximately 1000 referees operating at all levels throughout the country. Many of these
officiate at three or more games each weekend which is clearly an unsustainable situation.
Since the appointment of two full time employees to oversee the development of refereeing approximately 300
Referees have been recruited and trained each year. However, in the same period an average of 200 referees retire
from the game for a variety of reasons. This situation needs to be addressed rapidly if the game is to continue to
flourish.
An adequate pathway which caters for referees who wish to operate at higher levels is essential and the FAI has,
under the guidance of the manager of the referees department, put in place a School of Excellence that caters for
approximately 30 talented referees between the ages of 17 and 25 every two years.
Increasing the numbers of referees and developing standards at all levels is a major priority for the Association and
the following actions are proposed:
MAIN ACTIONS
Structures
● Appoint a working group to review and make
recommendations in relation to the Referee Development
Programme
● Devise an adequate structure to cater for the administration needs of the Referee Development Programme
● Maintain a detailed database of referees operating at all
levels
Promotion and Recruitment
● Actively target new referees through a professionally
planned recruitment and training campaign
Course Development
● A “Laws of the Game” module on FAI Coaching Courses
will be developed
● Outline a programme of development for Referee
Instructors
● Update and improve the content, resources and delivery
of the Referee Beginners Course
● Develop adequate training and education resource
materials
Communication
● Update referees section on FAI website
● Examine feasibility of producing a quality publication for
communicating with referees and assessors
Retention
● Provision of regular in-service training for newly
qualified referees
● Organisation of regular meetings with assessors and
instructors in order to update and review progress
● To develop a scheme which recognises Services to the
Game by Referees
Elite Referees
● Devise a High Performance Referee Development
Programme to help improve the classification and increase
the number of Officials on the National League and FIFA
Panel
RESPONSIBILITY
Referee Development Manager
Referee Development Manager and Referee Development
Working Group
Referee Development Manager
Referee Development Manager, Referee Recruitment
Officer and FAI Marketing Department
Referee Development Manager and Coach Education Coordinator
Referee Development Manager and Referee Development
Working Group
Referee Development Manager, Referee Recruitment
Officer,
UEFA, FIFA and Referee Department Manager
Referee Department Manager and FAI Webmaster
Referee Department Manager, FAI Marketing Department
Referee Recruitment Officer
Referee Department Manager
Referee Department Manager
Referee Department Manager and Referee Development
Working Group
Section 4.3 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
Administrators and Volunteers
EFFECTIVE volunteers play an essential and pivotal role in successful clubs and leagues.The FAI has a solid corps of
hard working, diligent, conscientious administrators working at all levels.The majority of these people are voluntary
and, at present, receive little or no in-service or preparatory training. Many spend an inordinate amount of time
executing their duties with little by way of a support system, or appreciation for their efforts.
In these circumstances it is difficult to attract new people to volunteer for the variety of positions that are
required to progress the game. If ignored, this issue will have an impact that will prove to be detrimental to the
development of the game.
The FAI will seek to address this issue by implementing the following actions;
MAIN ACTIONS
Research/Training needs analysis
● Research will be undertaken to identify the current
profile, role, demands and training needs of
volunteer and professional administrators involved in
the game
Recruitment
● Actively target the recruitment of volunteers
through a professionally planned recruitment drive
In-service Training
● Devise in-service training courses and workshops to
support volunteers operating at all levels of the
game
● Implement these courses at local, regional and
national level
● Devise and implement a continuous professional
development programme for administrators involved
in the game
RESPONSIBILITY
FAI Education Manager, FAI HR Department
FAI Marketing Dept, FAI Technical Department, LSP’s,
Volunteering Ireland
FAI Education Manager, The Irish Sports Council,
NCTC and Volunteering Ireland
Provincial Co-ordinators, LSP’s
FAI Education Manager, FAI HR Department.
Section 4.4 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
Parents
PARENTS play a vital role in many aspects of their children’s development in sport. Many get involved in coaching,
fundraising, administration and transporting children to and from training and matches.
It is essential that parents understand their role in assisting children to achieve their full potential within the game.
Over-critical and over-demanding parents can have a detrimental impact causing children to turn away from the sport
at an early age.
The FAI recognises that it has an important function in the education of parents and the vital role they play within the
game and over the term of the plan will strive to achieve the tasks outlined below.
MAIN ACTIONS
Web-Site
● Devise a section on the website for Parents outlining the
important role they play in supporting their children’s
participation in football and clearly outlining the player
pathway in Irish Football
Parents’ Workshops
● Devise and implement an interactive workshop specifically designed for introducing parents with young children
to the FUNdamentals of football
● Devise and implement a workshop for parents of
talented players in relation to their role in the further
development of their children’s pathway within the game
RESPONSIBILITY
FAI Education Manager, Grassroots Manager and FAI
Webmaster
FAI Education Manager and Coach Education Working
Group
FAI Player Development Manager, FAI Career Guidance
Officer and FAI Education Officerr
Section 4.5 BUILDING PATHWAYS IN IRISH SOCCER
Code of Ethics
THE FAI has, as the sole body with responsibility for the development of the
game in Ireland, a duty to protect the principles of fair play and to ensure that
children participate in the game in a safe environment. The FAI believes that
football can have a powerful and positive influence on children and young
people. But that means that everyone involved must take on the responsibility of looking after those children who want to play the game. The Irish
Sports Council recently published the Code of Ethics and Good Practice for
Children’s Sport in Ireland and the FAI has undertaken the task of making this
code specific to soccer.
The implementation of the Code of Ethics and Good Practice for Children’s
Soccer is, following its inclusion in the FAI rule book, a pre-requisite for all
clubs, coaches, administrators, leagues and affiliates within the FAI.
The Code of Ethics is about doing things the right way, doing things
properly. It’s about allowing children to enjoy the game without abuse of any
kind.
To ensure that the highest standards of ethics are upheld the FAI has
appointed a full-time Children’s Officer and since his appointment a number of
actions have been implemented. However, much work remains to be done and
the following actions will guide his work over the coming years.
MAIN ACTIONS
Publications
● Prepare, Publish and Promote the revised FAI Code
of Ethics and Good Practice for Children’s Soccer
document
● Prepare and publish promotional material
encouraging and supporting best practice in relation
to child welfare in soccer
● Develop and disseminate a sample Child Welfare
Policies and Procedures document to support
volunteers and clubs in their work with young people
Training
● Continue to co-ordinate the provision of relevant
training in co-operation with the Irish Sports Council
and other relevant agencies
Support
● Develop and deliver a support and advocacy
service for children currently playing in other
Football jurisdictions
Communication
● Continue to maintain lines of communication and
cooperation with Statutory Agencies in relation to
statutory investigations
● Maintain and continue to further develop already
established links with the English, Welsh, Scottish and
Northern Ireland Football Associations
RESPONSIBILITY
FAI Education Manager and Children’s Officer
FAI Education Manager and Children’s Officer
FAI Education Manager and Children’s Officer
FAI Education Manager and Children’s Officer, The
Irish Sports Council
FAI Children’s Officer
FAI Children’s Officer
FAI Children’s Officer
Section 5.1 LOCAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL SERVICES
The further development of FAI local, regional and national structures is a key
component of the Technical Development Plan. The plan recognises that the
foundations of the sport are built at club, school and local level. It is essential that a
regional structure is built up, with strong links to National League clubs and FAI
regional centres. The creation of a quality facility infrastructure is a high priority for
the Association. This will ensure that quality playing opportunities can be made
available at all levels.
Clubs
IN the majority of leading football countries significant benefits are accrued from having a structure of community
based clubs which operate a number of teams and are well managed. A key task for the FAI is to provide a pathway
that enables and encourages clubs to develop and achieve safe, quality football provision catering for all sections of
the community including children, women and players with disabilities.
A more effective club structure is vital for the development of the game in Ireland. Presently, there are too many
clubs operating with no clear consistent structure for the delivery of quality coaching, training and facilities.
The FAI must support clubs who have the potential to develop into strong community clubs. With this in mind
the FAI are committed to sustainable club development and thus raising the standard of football provision in the
community.
MAIN ACTIONS
Audit of Existing Club Structures
● Set up a working group to research and examine
existing club structures and to make recommendations that will foster quality, sustainable,
community club development
Club Development Programme
● To devise a programme based on the recommendations of the working group that will aid the
development of clubs
● To implement the Club Development Programme
RESPONSIBILITY
CEO
Grassroots Manager, Club Development Coordinator, Working Group
Club Development Co-ordinator and Provincial
Coordinator
Website
● Establish a ‘Club Services’ page on the website
Grassroots Manager, Marketing/Communications
Department
Communication
● Put in place a two-way communication structure
that will service the needs of both the Club and the
Association
Grassroots Manager, Marketing/Communications
Department
Award Scheme
● Develop a local, Regional and National Club
Awards Scheme to reward best practice
Grassroots Manager, National Co-ordinator,
Provincial Co-ordinator
Section 5.2 LOCAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL SERVICES
League Structures
THE role of a league is to provide organised, quality competitive football opportunities for players.These
competitive opportunities should be in line with the age and stage of development of players.
Currently, 37 schoolboy/girl, 34 junior, two intermediate and 19 women’s leagues exist at grassroots level within
Irish football. Many of these leagues are well run, providing quality competitions for their clubs and players.
However, there are areas of the country where leagues and competitive opportunities for particular target
groups are non-existent thus leaving large gaps in the player pathway.
There is a need for the FAI to establish a clear, consistent and agreed framework for leagues which directly
supports the goals of the Technical Development Plan. The implementation of the actions outlined will facilitate
the establishment of this framework.
MAIN ACTIONS
League Structures
● Establish a Working Group to review and make
recommendations regarding the further development of
League structures operating at Grassroots levels
League Development
● Devise a plan for the further development of Leagues
based on the recommendations outlined by the working
group
● Implement the programmes of action outlined in the
plan
RESPONSIBILITY
CEO and Techical Director, FAI Affiliates
FAI Grassroots Manager, FAI Affiliates
Provincial Co-ordinators, Leagues and FAI Affiliates
Player Registration Database
● Using the latest IT create a standard player registration
database
FAI Domestic Football Department
Competition Review
● Align league formats and player registration details with
the recommendations of the national competitions review
Competitions review Group and League Review Group
Section 5.3 LOCAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL SERVICES
National League
THE National League was founded in 1921 and originally consisted of eight clubs. Since then it has developed into two divisions
catering for 22 clubs. Over the years many fine moments have been witnessed and the league has produced many outstanding
players who have gone on to play the game at the highest levels.
Unfortunately, due to changes in the recreational choices of people and the growth in televised football from the UK and
Europe, it has become increasingly difficult for clubs to retain existing and, at the same time, attract new supporters.
The National League is the pinnacle of the Player Pathway for the domestic game. While recognising that significant strides
have been made in developing the League to date much work remains to be done if it is to further progress and meet the new
standards being applied by UEFA as part of its club licensing scheme.
A new pathway and improved structures need to be created within the National League to cater for emerging talent including
the delivery of higher standards of coaching, training, high performance back-up systems, and quality training facilities.
The FAI recognises that it needs to support the National League Clubs to put in place these structures to allow them to
compete at higher levels within European competition and the production of potential international players.
MAIN ACTIONS
Club Licensing
● Clubs to adopt and implement UEFA Club
Licensing guidelines
● Assist National League clubs to adopt and
implement technical guidelines
Emerging Talent
● Put in place an agreed FAI Emerging Talent
Programme linked to underage football and
the National League
● Devise a full time training programme to
prepare talented young players for the
demands of professional football
Compensation
● Develop a system of compensation for all
stakeholders in relation to the transfer of
players to and from eircom League clubs
Education and Training
● Enhance coaching standards within the
league
● Provide a series of in-service workshops for
Club Personnel
● To provide opportunities for League
managers and coaches to work on a regular
basis with international team management
High Performance
● Put in place a structure to integrate League
Clubs into FAI High Performance Programme
RESPONSIBILITY
FAI Club Licensing Manager and eircom League
Technical Director
FAI Player Development Manager, Emerging
Talent Working Group, eircom League
FAI Player Development Manager, eircom
League, FAS
Emerging Talent Working Group
FAI Education Manager and Coach Education
Co-ordinator
FAI Education Manager, Coach Education and
Player Development Manager
International Team Managers
High Performance Working Group
Section 5.4 LOCAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL SERVICES
Facilities
Based on the analysis of the consultation process undertaken during the development of this plan the provision of
quality facilities is a key issue for all involved in the game.
The FAI acknowledges that considerable financial aid has been provided by the Government through the Department
of Arts, Sport and Tourism. However, while many clubs and leagues have drawn down money to develop their facilities,
others due to a lack of additional finance, poor planning and difficulties completing the application process have not. A
consequence of this is that a significant portion of this money has gone back to the exchequer and has been lost to the
game. The FAI over the coming years will endeavour to maximise investment in facilities by continuously lobbying
government and through the delivery and implementation of its club development programme.
While the FAI will aim to increase the quality of local facilities, the identification and development of a number of
Regional Development Centres based around existing high quality facilities at a variety of locations around the country
will be a priority. These centres will become a focus for the development of the game in each region and will host a
number of the key programmes outlined in the Technical Development Plan.
Having made comparisons with other leading football associations around Europe, a high priority objective is the
development of a world class National Training Centre to cater for the needs of elite players and the cream of
emerging talent. This centre will house all of the support structures that are required to cater for international teams
and the delivery of advanced coaching programmes.
The actions opposite outline the key tasks to be undertaken by the Association over the coming years in order to
maximise the use of available government funding and to continue to upgrade and develop the base of quality facilities
at local regional and national levels.
Section 5.3 LOCAL, REGIONAL AND NATIONAL SERVICES
MAIN ACTIONS
Planning
● Prepare an analysis of existing facility
provision
● Prepare a detailed plan for the development
of local, regional and national facilities
● Finalise the criteria and plans for the identification and use of Regional Development Centres
Regional Development Centres
● Deliver an integrated and transparent process
to decide the locations of Regional
Development Centres
● Identify the location of Regional
Development Centres
● Implement annual audit of Regional
Development Centres
National Centre
● Agree criteria for National Training Centre
● Complete feasibility study for National
Training Centre including a detailed business
plan
RESPONSIBILITY
FAI Facility Development Manager, Dept. of
Arts, Sports and Tourism
FAI Facility Development Manager, Facility
Planning Working Group, Department of Arts,
Sport and Tourism
FAI Facility Development Manager, Technical
Director
FAI Facility Development Manager
FAI Facility Development Manager
FAI Facility Development Manager
FAI,CEO, FAI Facility Development Manager,
Technical Director
Section 6.1 MANAGEMENT, STRUCTURE AND FINANCE
THE current Technical Department structure evolved during the last six years with the introduction of a Technical
Director and the Regional Development Officer network.
The Technical Department had worked very much in isolation of the other departments within the FAI up to two
years ago, this was because of the nature of the work involved and the geographic spread of the RDOs. The
introduction of a Technical Co-ordinator and National Co-ordinators operating from Merrion Square has led to the
creation of better lines of communication and working relationships with other departments and affiliates. However,
more key personnel need to be employed in vital positions to guarantee the implementation of the Technical
Development Plan. An integrated Development and Corporate plan, will ensure all departments are working
towards the same vision and objectives.
A transparent and inclusive structure (see figure 8) is proposed to implement the Technical Development Plan
over the next five of years, with roles and responsibilities clearly defined for all parties.
A key feature of the proposed structure is the creation of a range of full time positions to support the
development of the game at local, regional and national levels. Three units will be created within the Technical
Department in the areas of Player Development; Grassroots Football; Services,Training and Education. Five
provincial co-ordinators will be appointed and the ultimate objective is to have at least one county development
officer operating in each county.
MAIN ACTIONS
Restructure
● Undertake a restructuring of the existing
Technical department in preparation for the
appointment of key personnel in the following
stages; Programme Managers; national coordinators; provincial co-ordinators; county
development officers.
Roles
● Define roles and responsibilities of all related
parties involved in the implementation of plan.
Appointments
● Appointment of Key Personnel
County Fora
● Pilot a number of Regional Technical Fora
managed by appropriately qualified personnel
to support the implementation of the Technical
Development Plan regionally and locally.
RESPONSIBILITY
Technical Director
CEO
CEO
Technical Director
Implementation Group
CEO
Technical Director
Technical Department
Provincial Co-ordinators
Affiliates
Leagues and clubs
Targets
● Clearly identify regional targets and goals at
provincial and county level.
Provincial Co-ordinator, County Development
Officers, County Fora
Ongoing Review
● Devise agreed criteria to constantly review
and measure the effectiveness of the plan
Technical Director, Provincial Co-ordinator,
County Development Officers, County Fora
51
Section 6.2 MANAGEMENT, STRUCTURE AND FINANCE
FAI Board
Development
International
Legal/Corp
Committee Structure
Figure 5
CEO
International
Management
Manager Player
Development
Provincial
Co-ordinator
Munster
Underage
Finance
Technical
Director
Admin/
Technical
Support
High
Performance
Group
Local Sports
Partnerships
Domestic
Manager Grassroots
Football and
Provincial Manager
● Emerging Talent
Programme
● U15/U16 Inter
Programme
● National Academy
Programme
● eircom League
FÁS Programme
● HP Programmes
● Summer School
Prog.
● Buntus Prog.
● Women's Football
Dev. Prog.
● Football for All
Dev. Prog.
● futsal Dev. Prog.
Provincial
Co-ordinator
Connaught
Provincial
Co-ordinator
Ulster
Manager FAI
Education
● Coach Education
Prog.
●
Volunteer
Education Prog.
● Parent Education
Prog.
● Player Career
Education Prog.
Provincial
Co-ordinator
Leinster
Provincial
Co-ordinator
Dublin
Affiliates
and
Regional/County
Development
Officers
Regional/County
Development
Officers
Regional/County
Development
Officers
Regional/County
Development
Officers
Regional/County
Development
Officers
● Cork
● Galway
● Cavan
● Kilkenny / Carlow
● North Dublin
● Kerry
● Roscommon
● Donegal
● Laois / Offaly
● South Dublin
● Limerick / Clare
● Mayo
● Monaghan
● Kildare
● West Dublin
● Tipperary
● Sligo / Leitrim
● Louth / Meath
● Dublin Central
● Waterford
● Longford
● Cork County
● Westmeath
● Wicklow
County Technical
Forums, Regional
Centres and
County Satellite
centres
County Technical
Forums, Regional
Centres and
County Satellite
centres
County Technical
Forums, Regional
Centres and
County Satellite
centres
County Technical
Forums, Regional
Centres and
County Satellite
centres
Part-time Coaches
Club/School Coaches
Players
Volunteers
and
Leagues
and
Clubs
Schools
● Wexford
County Technical
Forums, Regional
Centres and
County Satellite
centres
Provincial
Councils
Parents
A full list of the roles and responsibilities of the people outlined in the structure is contained in
appendix 5 at the rear of this document.
Section 6.3 MANAGEMENT, STRUCTURE AND FINANCE
Finance and Resources
Finance
In order to implement the FAI Technical Development Plan, significant financial resources will be required.These
resources will be recruited in the following way:
●
Existing structures and systems will be re-organised to maximise efficiency, focus and outputs
●
The FAI will invest in the implementation of the plan, from its existing resources
●
New revenue will be generated through sponsorship and programme development
●
Additional grant aid will be sought from the Irish Sports Council
●
Grant aid will be sought from other relevant Government Departments
Capital Expenditure will be met through a combination of grant aid from the Department of Arts, Sport and
Tourism and contributions from local, regional and national levels.
●
Local and regional investment in the game will be encouraged through partnerships between Clubs, Schools, Local
Authorities, Health Boards, and Corporate and Community Sectors
●
Resources
In the development of this plan and in consideration of the current and future environment we have made the
following assumptions;
●
The resources of the FAI will in real terms be increased significantly over the 5 years of the strategy.
●
That in agreement with the Irish Sports Council we will be supported in undertaking new priority initiatives.
That sufficient, appropriately experienced people will be deployed on a national level to assist in the delivery of
the objectives of the strategy.
●
Full realisation of the outlined objectives and actions will require the Association to substantially increase the staff
resources available currently. If the Association does not achieve the additional resources, the work programme will
be adjusted accordingly on a phased basis.
Section 6.4 MANAGEMENT, STRUCTURE AND FINANCE
Measurement and Review
Conditions for success
There are a number of essential pre-conditions for the success of the plan. The key ones are:
●
The availability of resources in line with the assumptions which are set out in the finance section
●
The gearing up of the internal organisation so that it is robust enough to deliver on the plan
The extent to which co-operation is forthcoming with affiliates and agencies involved in the organisation of
football at local, regional and national level
●
With the support of these elements, the FAI will measure success as outlined below.
Critical Success Indicators
The FAI recognises the importance of measuring the impact of its actions. This is appropriate as a guide to
assessing the effectiveness of its actions and as a basis for evaluating value for money to the Association and the
national purse. The following are the critical success indicators which the FAI will monitor to assess its success in
implementing the plan:
Number of people participating in FAI football programmes and local regional and national structures (by age,
gender, geographic location, social circumstance).The FAI will rely heavily on the Irish Sports Council’s research
programme for initial data in relation to participation but with the implementation of a standard player registration
database, updated figures will be readily available.
●
Achievements of Irish teams at international level and in European club competition. This will be measured by the
FAI in relation to the performance of Irish international and National League teams in European and World
Championships.
●
Progress in relation to the development of structures and performance indicators at local, county provincial and
national levels within the FAI’s organisational development model and the development of strategic plans for the
implementation of the overall Technical Development Plan.
●
Through criteria established by the FAI, influence the current and capital investment in the game. This will be
measured through the degree of revenue generated by the FAI over the course of the plan
●
Increased awareness of the benefits of participation in football by the public at large and awareness of the positive
work that is undertaken by the FAI at all levels of the game.This will be measured through market research at
various intervals
●
The Association will also monitor two key enablers for delivering on the strategic objectives:
The forging and strengthening of key relationships through which the plan will be delivered. The development of
these relationships will increase our ability to act through them and is crucial to the effectiveness of the implementation
●
●
Achievement of key developmental milestones of the FAI as an organisation. To be effective, it must develop as
Section 6.4 MANAGEMENT, STRUCTURE AND FINANCE
an organisation, moving up the developmental curve as the implementation of the plan occurs.The Technical
Department has mapped out the next steps in its development and will monitor progress to ensure the capability
to deliver.
Review Process
A strong and timely review process will be vital to the success of the plan. The implementation of the plan will be
continuously reviewed over its 5 year term. This will be done using a variety of mechanisms at management level.
The FAI will address a number of dimensions of the implementation as follows:
●
Measurement of outcomes to be delivered by the plan as defined in the implementation plan
The commissioning of regular reports (quarterly) by management and delivered by national and provincial coordinators
●
●
The outcome of an annual survey of the registration database
The FAI will produce in its annual report a statement on progress on the implementation of the plan and any
changes, which have been considered necessary due to changes in the environment in which the plan operates
●
●
Business plans, with accompanying action plans will be developed for each area of the plan
Section 7 OUTLINE IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
2004
2005
Impact
Regional Impact
Local Impact
Technical Department Goals
Structure Development &
Awareness \ Implementation
Awareness & Implementation
Technical Development Plan Objectives
Actions
Actions
1. Define Philosophy & Pathways for
the development of Irish players
● Player Pathway defined
● Publish Pathway
● Competitions review started
● Competitions review completed
2. Increase the quality and quantity of
Tutors, Coaches, Referees,
Administrators through a programme
of Education
● Education Group formed
● Coach \ Tutor programme reviewed and publish
Coaching Ladder
● Align current courses to TDP
● Develop new courses for Tutors, Coaches and
Referees
● Develop educational packs for courses up to level 1
● Launch and roll out new courses
● Complete assimilation process
● Develop Tutor materials up to Level 1
● Continue roll out of courses
● Coaching resources designed and developed
● Complete review of Level 2 \ 3
● Develop Tutor materials up to Level 2 & 3
● Develop Pro. Licence
● Upgrade Level 2 \ 3 Coaches
● Develop and begin implementation of volunteer
education programme
3. Increase Grassroots Participation
● Parents Guide released
● Implement Summer Schools
● Implement Buntus Programme
● Implement futsal programme
● Implement Football for All Regional Player
Development programme
● Implement Women’s Football Plan
● Develop an FAI Licence agreement for non affiliated
clubs and organisations
● Implement Summer Schools
● Implement Buntus Programme
● Implement futsal programme
● Implement Football for All Regional Player
Development programme
● Implement Women’s Football Plan
● Establish a club development programme
4. Provide a clear Development
Structure for Emerging Talent
● Develop Player \ Coaches Manual
● Working Group to develop programme for Learn to
Train phase
● First Phase , pilot programme implemented for
9\10y, 11\12y
● Devise an interim programme and workshops for
coaches and managers of Kennedy Cup teams and
U15\U16 representative teams
● Pilot programme evaluated
● Publication of Player \ Coaches Manual
● Second phase, 60% implemented for 9\10y, 11\12y
● Devise an interim programme for coaches and
managers of Kennedy Cup teams and U15\U16
representative teams
● Player measurement system implemented
● Link emerging talent with International player
database
● Working Group to develop programme for Train to
Train phase
● Develop educational programmes for Emerging
Talent
5. Create Links between Emerging
Talent Programme and eircom
League, UK, Europe
● Working Group to agree formula for compensation
and agree policy for the movement of players
● Implement a National League \ FAS education
programme
● Implement compensation policy nationally
● Develop a model for a Player Identification Licence
● Player Career Guidance programme devised and
piloted
6. Enhance the standards of the
National League against European
benchmarks
● Implement Club Licence Stage 1
● Pilot links between European
Qualifying Clubs and HP programme.
● LOI coaching and management workshops
● Develop and promote U21 League
● Implement Club Licence Stage 2
● Create links between National Premier League Clubs
and HP programme
● LOI coaching and management workshops
7. Achieve and sustain International
Success
● High Performance Group set up
● HP plan completed and staffing requirements
identified
● World class support systems created for Senior Team
● Create International Player database
● World class support systems created for U21 – U17
International teams
● Achieve qualification for 2006 World Cup (seniors)
● Extend player recruitment\ identification on a global
basis
8. Provide guidelines and a
framework for the development of
quality facilities
● Guidelines and agreements developed
● Analysis of current position
● Regional Development Center plan established and
venues identified
● Begin implementing RDC Programme
● Satellite Centres established
9. Put in place a structure to
implement the Technical
Development Plan
●
●
●
●
● Employ staff as required
● Monitor progress on a quarterly basis
● Review targets
Agree Structure
Employ New management staff and support staff
Establish Forums
Set local targets
2006
2007
2008
National Impact
National Impact
International Impact
Implementation
Implementation
Review and Refocus
Actions
Actions
Actions
● Implement Competition Model
● Refine and add to Player Development Manual
● Review player development model in line with
current international best practice.
● Review Development
of current squads
● Roll out of Pro. Licence 1st Phase
● Roll out of updated level 2 \ 3
● Continue implementation of volunteer education
programme
● Continuous Development of Coach education
Resources
● Continue implementation of volunteer education
programme
● Roll out of Pro. Licence 2nd Phase
● Review up to Level 1
● Upgrade level 2 \ 3 Coaches
● Continue implementation of volunteer education
programme
● Implement Summer Schools
● Implement Buntus Programme
● Implement futsal programme
● Implement Football for All Regional Player
Development programme
● Implement Women’s Football Plan
● Develop quality assurance scheme for clubs
● Implement Summer Schools
● Implement Buntus Programme
● Implement futsal programme
● Implement Football for All Regional Player
Development programme
● Implement Women’s Football Plan
● Implement quality assurance scheme
● Implement Summer Schools
● Implement Buntus Programme
● Implement futsal programme
● Implement Football for All Regional Player
Development programme
● Implement Women’s Football Plan
● Third phase, 100% implemented for 9\10y, 11\12y
● Pilot programme implemented for 13\14y, U15\U16
● Devise an interim programme for coaches and
managers U15 \ U16 representative teams
● Pilot programme evaluated
● Working Group to develop programme for Train to
Compete phase
● Roll out educational programme
● 9\10y, 11\12y programme evaluated
● Fourth phase, 60% implemented for 13\14y, 15\16y
● Continue 9\10y, 11\12y programme
● Fifth phase 100% implemented for 9\10y, 11\12y,
13\14y, 15\16y
● Update Player \ Coaches Manual
● Monitor and evaluate compensation policy
● Roll out Career Guidance programme
● Implement Player Identification Licence
● Monitor and evaluate compensation policy
● Roll out Career Guidance programme
● Implement Player Identification Licence
● Review compensation policy
● Roll out Career Guidance programme
● Implement Player Identification Licence
● Monitor and evaluate Club Licence
● Create links between Division 1 teams and HP
programme
● LOI coaching and management workshops
● Implement Competitions Review recommendations
●
●
●
●
Monitor and evaluate Club Licence
Monitor HP programme for National League clubs
Monitor competition structure
LOI coaching and management workshops
● National Team to qualify
for second round of European Comp.
● Review Competitions
● LOI coaching and management workshops
● Monitor international progress for under age teams
● Review Senior International progress during
campaign for 2006 World Cup
●
●
●
●
Progress to second phase of World Cup
Review under age progress
Achieve qualification for 2008 Senior Euro Champ
Achieve qualification for U21 Euro Champ.
● Qualification for U17, U19 Championship Finals
● Review Senior International progress during
campaign for 2008 Euro Championships
● Continue implementation of RDC Programme
● Satellite Centres established
● Continue implementation of RDC Programme
● Satellite Centres established
● Continue implementation of RDC Programme
● Satellite Centres established
● Review of Facility plan
● Employ staff as required
● Monitor progress on a quarterly basis
● Review targets
● Employ staff as required
● Monitor progress on a quarterly basis
● Review targets
● Monitor progress on a quarterly basis
● Review targets
Appendix
APPENDIX 1
Consultation Workshops
Area
Venue
Date
Galway
Kerry/West Cork
Limerick/Clare
Wexford/Wicklow/
Carlow
Cork/Waterford
Donegal
Sligo/Leitrim/Mayo
Westmeath, Longford
Laois, Carlow
Kilkenny/Waterford
South Dublin
North Dublin/Louth/
Meath
Kildare/Dublin West
and Central
Monaghan/Cavan/
Louth/Meath
Galway City
Tralee
Limerick
Gorey
27th November 2002
2nd December 2002
4th December 2002
9th December 2002
Cork
Letterkenny
Sligo
Athlone
Portlaoise
Kilkenny
Stillorgan
Swords
16th December 2002
6th January 2003
7th January 2003
13th January 2003
15th January 2003
3rd February 2003
17th February 2003
19th February 2003
Red Cow Hotel - Naas
Road
Carrickmacross
24th February 2003
27th February 2003
APPENDIX 2 CONSULTATION
Written Submissions
recieved from:
Teresa O’Donovan
James Scurry
Kieran Logan
Des O’Neill
Tom Goodman
Canice Kennedy
Paul Sheridan
Adrian O’Riordan
Niamh O’Donoghue
Atendees at
Consultation
Workshops:
Ken English
Paul Cashim
Giles Chivers
Jimmy McGeogh
Sean O'Brian
Richard Randall
Billy Hearne
Jimmy Donnelly
Jim Rathigan
Pat Foley
Billy Walsh
Willie Lannon
Kevin O'Sullivan
Carmel Wymes
Jimmy Wymes
Gerry O'Neill
Ger Duggan
Eamonn Sexton
Val/Gary Power
Jonny Browne
Eamon Nolan
David Foley
Jim Cashin
John Cremins
Teresa Healy
Ronnie Grace
John Corrigan
Tom Mullins
Peter Maher
Brendan Lonorgan
Matt Dooley
Pat Shorthall
Ray Moran
Rory Sherwin
Madaline Barcoe
Pascal Bergin
PJ O'Neill
Eldon Ryan
Stephen O'Neill
Ger O'Brien
Owen Tubbritt
Siobhan Furlong
Tommy Griffin
Paul Power
David Breen
Barry O'Neill
John Martin
Micheal Murphy
David Conslly
Paul Mitchell
Geraldine Tracey
Mick Geary
Thomas French
Richard Devlin
Justin Neary
Mick O'Shaughnessy
Pat O'Connor
Pat McDonnell
David Brown
David Brady
Charles O'Connor
Gabrial D'Arcy
John Cleary
Tom Lally
Justin Brady
Jimmy McElroy
Johnny Glynn
Paul Reidy
John Brennan
Mark Herrick
Nick Scott
Noel Connelly
Joan Power
Barry McDermott
Margin Horgan
Tommy Fahy
Brian Laffoy
Tony Johnstone
Pat Minogue
Paul McGee
Karl Brian
David Burke
Mike Corbitt
Jimmy Nolan
Ger McGlynn
Joe Reilly
Gerry McDermott
John Clarke
Mick Raftery
Gerry McDermott
Sean Corcoran
Noel Dervan
Derek Rogers
Johm Clancy
Gerry Moran
Sean Hynes
Ollie Daniels
Tom Lally
Chris O'Reilly
Ronan Coleman
Martin Ridge
Justin Neary
Joe O'Donnel
Ger Costello
Teresa Lowry
Pat Morrissey
Carmel Lynch
Michael Lynch
Michael Connolly
Paul Molloy
Eamonn O'Brien
Liam McCormac
Andrea Ratigan
Michael Commerford
Tony Scanlon
Bobby Smith
Pat McNally
Jim Baldwin
Paddy Ryan
John Joe Campian
Ken English
Ritchie Lynch
Tom Sheehan
Anthony Murphy
Seamus Costello
Derek Chesnutt
Declan Howlett
Ray Condon
GerryCummins
Mick Hennessy
Kevin Cashin
Liam Walsh
Pat McAuley
Thomas Mahon
Neil O'Grady
James Finnegan
Noel White
John Clifford
Georgie O'Callaghan
Tom O'Shea
Mary Lyne
Mick Lyne
Stephen O'Mahony
Tony Neill
Colm Dunkin
Tom O'Connor
Catrione O'Sullavan
Gerard Molony
Denis Quirke
Tom Mc Giff
Patrick Finigan
Jason Fitzgerald
Miah Lynch
David Elton
Jason Foley
Sean O'Keeffe
John O'Regan
Tommy O'Riordon
Michael Connor
Frank Sheehan
Brian Hanbey
Dennis Carlon
Aiden O'Connor
John B Chute
Michael Duggan
Michael O'Sullavan
Frank Downs
Maurice Carry
Pat Doab
P.J. Hogan
Mike Kelly
Pat Mc Morron
Maurice Guilfoyle
Jimmy Devane
John Heare
Frank Nelligan
Niall Kennedy
Declan Noonan
Denis Hayes
Eamon Reidy
Pauline Callaghan
Paddy Walsh
Stephen Griffin
Ciaran O'Reilly
Maring Dowe
Robert McTerney
Noel Malone
J. Mooney
Pat O'Connor
Andy Murphy
Paddy Duffy
Mike O'Regan
Pat Mullally
Mike Brennan
Carol Murphy
Annette Cusack
Billy Barrett
Kevin Fitzpatrick
Richard Grimes
Damian Walsh
Elaine O'Connor
Tommy Gaynore
Tom Glynn
G. Madden
Cyril Garvey
Sean Barrett
Bill Hayes
Denis Hayes
John O'Neill
David Rooney
Pat Duffy
Michael Wright
Gerry McCormack
Alan Maloy
Donal Magee
Martin Hayes
Paddy Gunnife
Michael Barry
Pat Breen
John Burke
Catherine Byrne
Christine Bowden
David Bolger
Mary Browne
Sean Byrne
Terry Cooke
Tommy Clarke
Garry Coady
John Coughlan
Peter Doyle
Fintan Duggan
William Doyle
Malcolm Earle
Bert Fortune
Seamus Glover
Davis Harper
Tony Gayden
Pat Kirwin
John Kavanagh
Ian Lawlor
Noel Martin
Anna McGreal
Susan McGreal
Johnny Murry
John McDonald
Michael Mordant
Johnny Glynn
Seamus Glover
Don Hearne
Eamonn Byrne
Brian Burn
Jack Carty
Eddie Doyle
Fintan Duggan
Jim Sutton
Patrick Sheridan
Neville Steadman
Stephen Neiland
Byrne Patrick J
Mick Conroy
Tony Fitzgerald
Gerard Delaney
Liam Foley
Martin Conlon
Canice Kennedy
Michael Crawley
Donal O'Connor
Noel Hennessy
Stephen Lynch
John Hayes
John Shine
Denis Cambridge
Matt Robinson
Tom Clancey
Joe Murphy
Len Hackett
Liam O'Flynn
Denis J. O'Sullavan
Paddy Carroll
John Murphy
Laurence Neville
Michael McBride
Paddy Pollard
Liam Fraser
David Hill
Gerry Mc Ananey
John Turner
Fergus McDaid
Gemma Crowley
Chris O'Mahony
Ritchie Elliott
Billy Byrne
Paul Duggan
Pat Quinn
Frances Swan
Tom Lewis
Michael Looby
Billy George
Stephen Napier
Paddy Mc Carthy
Chris Connor
Pat Kelly
Per. Foran
Michael Kirby
Tina Murphy
Chris Condon
Ann Sexton
Barry Duggan
Paudie O'Brien
Stuart Ashton
Dan Wyatt
Jim Murphy
John Caulfield
Joe Terry
Dennis McHugh
Eunan Brolly
Donal McCafferty
Michael McGlynn
Toal McClafferty
Hugo Toner
Dennis doherty
Niall McGonagle
Johathan Bird
Dessie Kelly
Paddy Hannigan
Jack O'Herlihy
John Andy Bonner
Paddy McGee
Michael McGeehan
Jonathan Adare
Francis Dorter
Jim McConnell
Cyril Porter
Tony McNamee
Kevin Mahon
Declan Devine
Hugh Karkin
Jim Roddy
Jonathan Speake
Philip Connelly
Gerry Gallagher
Gerry Ward
Artheur Kee
Frankie Murrin
Seamus Campbell
Dennis Porter
Robert White
Pauric O'Neill
Frank Sweeney
Peter Donaghy
Peter Toner
PJ Kavanagh
Liam McLaughlin
Stevie Coll
Gerry Davenport
Aisling Crawford
Charlie Shields
Eamonn McConigley
Sean Carr
James Rodgers
Patrick Foy
Harry Walsh
Dermot Dunne
Brian Bell
Brian Dorrian
Vincent McColgan
Neil Hirrell
Tony McElhinney
Tony Doherty
Diarmuid Doherty
John O'Doherty
John Francis Dugan
John Duggan
Declan Kerr
Liam Donnelly
Philip Montgomery
Ian Curristan
Deirdre O'Toole
Terence Moyne
Eamonn Doherty
Willie Boyle
Anthony Gorman
Tony Gorman
Eric White
Gereard McGinley
Nicola Harris
Liz Gordon
John Feely
Dermot O'Brien
Shane Byrne
Charlie O'Donnell
Liam Porter
Liam Rainy
Philip Diggins
Hughie Gallagher
Herbie Barr
Cathal James
Kevin Doherty
Derek Doherty
Stephen Cutliffe
Philip McLaughlin
John Doherty
John McLaughlin
Fr. Michael Sweeney
Declan Doherty
Niall Patton
John Duffy
Patricia Harkin
Liam McClean
Brian Matthews
Gerry McDermott
Lorcan McCabe
Art Agnew
K McMahon
Stephen Connolly
Gary Smyth
Jerry Conlan
Sean McInerney
John O'Connell
Declan Prendergast
Paul Black
Noel Doyle
Tom Mulvaney
Eamonn Munnelly
Kevin McGrath
Liam Callan
Sean Hand
Pat McDonell
Padraig Cassidy
Paul Rooney
Michael Duffy
Joseph McDonald
Michael Walsh
George Harrison
Tony Kennedy
Brian Finnegan
Seamus Finnegan
David Cranny
Cathal Kearny
Noel Farrelly
Connor Waring
John Whyte
Ciaran Hand
Alan Matthews
Eamonn Curley
Paul Joyce
Tom Byrne
Dominic Sheenan
Stephen McEnteer
James McEnteer
Vincent Hogan
Enda Fields
Eddie Murphy
John Rice
Frankie Brogan
Tony O'Kane
John Crudden
Francie McQuaid
Johnny McEvoy
Adrian Taaffe
Pat McGowan
Grainne McGowan
Joe McCabe
Louise Bogh
Noel Walsh
Des Smith
John Heffernan
Noel Hand
Frances Smith
Conor Greenan
Jimmy Greene
Philip Coffey
Tony Kelly
Kevin O'Neill
Bref Rowan
Colm Muldoon
Thomas O'Brien
Stephen Connolly
Tommy Lucy
William Wallace
Noel Lennon
Colm Cummins
John Curlye
Seamus Hayes
Noel Lyons
D Beaumont
Brendan Fahy
Paddy Murphy
Billy Doyle
Tony Henry
Conor foley
Conor Frawley
Gerald Lennon
Ray O'Brien
Brian Cullen
Ray Benson
John Gately
Cyril Barricle
Tommy Cormican
Padraig Quinn
John Burke
Tony Coyne
Liam McGovern
Edward Flynn
Paul O'Donovan
Ian Kelly
Liam Gaffey
Liam McCormack
John Nolan
Trevor Moylan
Padraig Moran
Gerry Doyle
Thomas Carty
Kevin Cassidy
John Bead
Paul Cummins
Joe Smyth
J Sherlock
Reine Flower
Trish McCormack
Gerry O'Neill
Christy Allen
Seamie Buckley
Terry O'Neill
Michael Hayes
Padraig Dully
Maria Allen
Anthony Egan
Anthony Sherlock
Tony O'Sullivan
Padraic McGowan
John Comber
TP Hickey
Pat Flynn
Jimmy Brien
Martin Nolan
Ronnie colum
Francis Healy
Brendan Parkes
Seamie Ryan
Chris Hand
Phil Mooney
Richard Keane
Martin Brennan
Gary Kelly
Declan Goulding
Paul Smith
Paul Brennan
Chris O'Sullivan
Alan O'Halloran
Stephen Donnelly
Alan Kinsella
Paul Boyle
Brain Dalton
Tommy Stack
Stephen O'Connor
Stephen O'Reilly
John Broughan
Keith Dunne
Pat Dunne
Aisling Looney
Frank Buckley
James Coll
Charlie Byrne
Gerry Keogh
Mick Keating
Eamon Balfe
John Mooney
Dessie Robinson
Kevin Fahy
Declan Reid
Shane Reid
Ken Keogan
Hilda McDermott
David Blood
Michael Kinsella
Patrick Mahon
Pauline
O'Shaughnessy
David Drew
Dave Curtis
Peter Suthcliffe
Brian Murphy
Alan Matthews
Will Clarke
Tony Merriman
Declan Darcy
Brian James
Paul Brady
Michael Butley
Christy Mahon
David Callan
Aran O'Callaghan
Denis Hyland
Lorraine Dowdall
Ian Murray
Damian Creevey
Orla Creevey
John Kavanagh
Karl Gibbons
Martin Kelly
Eamonn Doyle
Paul Mehan
Jason Carey
Jacinta Kearns
Gerry McConor
Alan Cleary
Jason Smith
Stephen Fellell
Conor Fitzgerald
Noel McLoughlin
John Fahy
Fergal O'Brien
Noel Kelly
Alan Creaner
Pat Harman
Gerard Glynn
Joe Smyth
Liam Archor
Derek Boyle
Brian Farrelly
Bill Barry
Bernard Troy
Darren Whelan
Christy Carroll
Pat Duffy
Aidan Sherlock
Michael Noonan
Joe MacNamara
Michael Bolger
Darragh O'Reilly
Malcolm Slatery
Ray Kelly
Frank Monaghan
Hugh Reilly
Kieran O'Reilly
Niall O'Reilly
Paul O'Rourke
Karl Freeman`
Darren Burke
John Moore
Colm Eglington
Sean Whelan
Bob Smith
Paddy Kerr
Noel Barrett
John Davis
Francis Coleman
John Hobbs
John Byrne
Thomas Brady
Liam Donnelly
John Fox
Dave Kelly
Brian Gillan
Shane Nulty
George Forsyth
Emmet Ryan
William Cooney
Dermot Egan
Barry Lyons
George Webb
Stephen Murphy
Garry Griffin
Michael Ward
Michael Shelly
Nigel Fitzpatick
John Hudson
Anto Whelan
Dave O'Brien
John O'Brien
Paul Butler
Martin Ryan
Graham Kelly
Michael Mason
Chris O'Grady
Aoife Cleary
Nichole Dunphy
James Kelly
Pat Behan
John Doyle
Ger Bickerstaff
David Hayden
Roseleen Hayden
Sean Flynn
Jamie Quinn
Richard McSweeney
Chris Nestor
Tos McDermott
Karl Bond
Eamonn Pardy
Sean Lowry
Brian Flannery
Alan Kileen
Justin Madden
Michael Lawlor
John Farrell
Michael Collins
Ollie Burke
Stephen Hibbitts
William Helay
John Harkin
Frank McEvoy
Tony Cushen
Mark Kelly
George Donagher
Noel Donagher
Kevin Burke
Louglin Fitzsimons
Les Francis
Dave Dunning
Joe Foley
Peter Hurley
Martin Doyle
Ned Dunne
Martina Foley
John Kenny
PJ Hoctor
John Cahill
Damien Keating
Myles Kelly
John O'Shea
Jack Daly
Tommy Kinsella
Sean Kennedy
M Rowland
Nigel Jenning
Hugh Cunningham
Michael Feeney
Kevin Culkin
Keith O'Dwyer
Noel McGuiness
Brendan Gillen
Peter McDonnell
Brendan Kenny
Noel Kennedy
Paul Harte
Nicael McMorrow
Brendan Lowe
Michael Rooney
Gavin Dykes
Danny O'Leary
Niall Davey
Paul Murphy
Michael Fox
Shane Coyne
Donal Benson
Pat Quigley
Kenneth Gannon
Pat O'Connor
Albert Higgins
Karl Keirns
Padraig McVawn
Seamus O'Boyle
Michael Mulvaney
Don O'Riordan
Anthony Hennigan
Shane Hayes
Micky Cox
Paul Brennan
Michael O'Donnell
Harry McCaferty
Fergal Forde
John Greenan
Leo Tierney
John O'Donoghue
John Reynolds
Kevin Fitzsimons
John Feeney
Ray McManus
Brian Lacey
Mary McGowan
Tina Berne
Geramy Dee
John Durkin
Willie Bradley
Joe Burke
Enda Scanlon
Kieran McGowan
Ray Gallagher
Mary Walsh
Packie Bonner
Moya Burke
Johnny Carlin
Anthony Boyle
Joe Cleary
Jim Healy
Stephen McCoy
Bernie Collery
Johnny Kelly
Mick Walsh
Gerry Sweeney
Damien McCallan
Noel O'Donnell
APPENDIX 3 RESULTS OF CONSULTATION PROCESS
What are the benefits of school/clubs links?
Raw Data Themes
More schools – more players
More players
Increase no. of
participants/volunteers
More community involvement
Good intro to football
Introduction for girls
More chances to play
Captivate audience
Captivate audience in schools (2)
Share facilities (5)
Access to facilities
Facilities could be used all
day/evening
Sharing of facilities/equipment
Higher Order Themes
General Dimensions
Larger playing base (4)
Introduction to soccer (3)
Increased participation (10)
Captivate audience (3)
Shared facilities (8)
Development of a structured
plan FAIS/SFAI joint initiative
Joint bids for grants
Joint development (2)
Easy access for promotion of
club
Training of teachers – can be
used by club
More contact time with coaches
Other benefits (3)
Joint benefits (3)
How can better links be established?
Raw Data Themes
Higher Order Themes
Train teachers to coach (2)
Workshop for teachers
RDO’s to provide training to
teachers
Promote coach education training
for teachers
More FAS schemes to help with
coaching in schools
Tops – teacher training, should
also be introduced in clubs
Organise coaching courses
Coach Education for teachers (8)
Target female parents – better
with kids
Attract parents within schools
Use parent committee
Coaching courses for parents
through schools
More parental involvement (4)
Encourage teachers to take teams
Involve teachers in clubs
Female teachers – help/educate
More Teacher involvement (3)
Club coaches go into schools (4)
Leagues should be able to send
coaches into schools – no poaching
by clubs
Clubs provide coaches for schools
Improve/create links with club
coaches
General Dimensions
Educate teachers & parents (10)
Club coaches in schools (7)
Club organise local school
competitions
Clubs take responsibility for
running blitzes in schools
Clubs organise teams for schools –
training
Clubs organise school soccer (3)
National League clubs to visit
schools (2)
Clubs adopt a school
School / club liaison
School/club links (4)
Clubs take iniviative (14)
APPENDIX 3 RESULTS OF CONSULTATION PROCESS
Raw Data Themes
Closer links with SFAI/FAIS
More communication between
SFAI/FAIS Junior/LOI
Increased communication between
SFAI/FAIS (2)
More contact between SFAI/FAIS
to create better understanding –
co-ordinate links
Increase communication between
clubs and schools
Proper structures in place –
sustainable
Better-structured competitions –
timing and try to increase numbers
playing
Better co-ordination of fixtures
More organised approach to
competitions and timing of
Higher Order Themes
More contact between clubs /
schools (6)
More organised structures (4)
Improved communication links (16)
Share facilities (2)
Share facilities – indoor/pitches
Accessibility and flexibility in
relation to use of facilities
Shared facilities (4)
Links with parents and kids
Get good people in by linking with
schools
More links (7)
Local high profile players should
go to schools
Get ex-players/role models into
schools to coach
Good PR for clubs/schools etc.
Change mindset of schools re.
GAA/rugby
General Dimensions
Improved PR in schools (4)
Increased profile (10)
Free national league tickets
Captivate audience
Emphasis on fun/participation
Organise blitzes to promote the
game
Need to build soccer tradition
Develop primary school leagues
with emphasis on fun
Promotion of soccer (6)
Raw Data Themes
Kids can pay coaches
Charge kids for coaching in
schools – pay coaches – fundraiser
for clubs?
FAI pays coaches to go into
schools
More RDO’s/YDO’s
Appoint school development
officers
YDO’s to coach in schools
After school coaching (2)
Higher Order Themes
General Dimensions
New coaching initiatives (8)
Set up forum for the
development of schools football
chaired by FAI
Develop programme to show
benefits of school-club links
Open days in schools and clubs
School/sports co-ordinators
Local school/club co-ordinator
Schools football in winter – club
in summer
School / Club programmes (6)
Buntus programme (2)
Football in community scheme (2)
Development squads for best
players in school
Look at IRFU model – YDO’s
funding
Target more girls
Other programmes (7)
Local leagues, local players
Info to leagues/clubs
Monitor and reward good people
Other issues
New initiatives (21)
APPENDIX 3 RESULTS OF CONSULTATION PROCESS
What type of local, regional and national competitions
would you like to see?
Raw Data Themes
Summer football (6)
Summer football – better pitches
& facilities (2)
March to October season (2)
Summer soccer – difficulties with
GAA
All leagues should have U18
competition starting in June after
LC and before college
Futsal played in winter (3)
Develop futsal leagues (3)
Higher Order Themes
General Dimensions
Summer soccer (11)
Futsal in Winter (6)
Seasonal & modified
competition (39)
SSG – up to U12 (4)
SSG – 3, 5, 7, 9 a side (4)
More emphasis on SSG (2)
Small-sided games (10)
Street leagues – mini World Cups
Street leagues reintroduced
Bring back street leagues –
Community Games
Devise/develop street leagues
Street leagues (4)
More blitzes (5)
Blitzes taking place throughout
summer
More blitz competitions
Blitzes (8)
Raw Data Themes
International club competitions –
Milk Cup type comps held in
Ireland
Prestigious invitational
competitions – Milk Cup
Development of Milk Cup type
invitational comps
Bring in national league comps
after Kennedy Cup at U15, 16, 17’s
(5)
More Kennedy Cup style comps
properly promoted
More elite comps after Kennedy
Cup
Higher Order Themes
General Dimensions
Milk Cup (3)
Kennedy Cup (7)
Regional Development Squads –
sent to Foyle Cup
Development Squads
Development of improved
structures for women’s football
leagues (2)
More girl’s/women’s
competition/participation (3)
More Women’s competitions (5)
Girls should be allowed to play up
to 14
Girl’s leagues at U12, 13, 14, 16…
Extend underage competitions (2)
More female coaches
More female coaches
Higher standard competitions (11)
Women’s competitions (8)
APPENDIX 3 RESULTS OF CONSULTATION PROCESS
Raw Data Themes
Higher Order Themes
Development of schools
competition for boys & girls
School competitions need to be
revamped – better organisation
Develop competitions (2)
More school comps (2)
More blitzes in schools (2)
Primary school leagues locally
More competitions (5)
General Dimensions
Seasonal & modified
competition (39)
Create links between clubs &
schools – arrange fixtures/ prevent
clashes
Community development – clubs
adopt a school
Club links (2)
More teacher involvement
Buntus programme
Other (2)
Create a structure of local
development of local leagues
Club structures need to be
improved
Improved structure (2)
Proper structures & time in
advance for competitions timetables
Better communication between
everyone re: competition timing
Co-ordination of all leagues
Co-ordination (3)
Proper competitive pathway
Structure (6)
Raw Data Themes
Increase amount of training and
matches for average players
Intro leagues at odd ages – 13, 15,
17
Improve U21 national league
Mixed teams up to U13
Combine boys and girls teams if
no girls leagues/teams exist
Underage matches before LOI
matches
Eircom U18 league
Open draw for Oscar Traynor
Oscar Traynor – team for Laois
Connacht cup/League at all levels
– more games
More competition, especially for
13+
Regional leagues at older levels
More club teams to enter U17 FAI
Cup
Round robin groups in cup
competitions
All clubs should play in their own
area/district
Development of intercounty
competitions
There should be min. no of
teams/league
Play matches on all-weather
Higher Order Themes
General Dimensions
Competition improvements (11)
Introduce new / modified
competition (18)
New competition formats (7)
Emphasise fun (6)
Coaching & fun (3)
Not be all and end all
No prizes at younger ages
No competition up to U13
(trophies/medals)
No knockout for teams up to
U13
Less knockout comps
Less competition (4)
More skills competitions –
challenge kids
Development of skills
competitions
More skills (2)
Based on participation
Participation must improve
Inclusive matches – all should
participate
Increased participation (3)
Emphasis of competition (13)
APPENDIX 3 RESULTS OF CONSULTATION PROCESS
Raw Data Themes
Higher Order Themes
Cross league competitions – A’s
play A’s (2)
Balanced leagues – grading system
(3)
Champions league for clubs –
junior soccer
Regional competition at own
levels (Kilkenny)
Shield competitions for teams of
lower ability
Too many leagues dominated by
one team
Graded competition
Raise profile of comps – PR
More TV coverage
Bring international games to
local regions/clubs
Increase profile (3)
Four quarters instead
Make pitch fit players
Implement existing rules – twothirds match rule
Amalgamation of local clubs
New rules (4)
More refs = more games – more
referee recruitment officers
Educational packs for
parents/club/admin
More coaching
Keep players
FAS scheme for players who’ve
gone away & come back
More people need to be recruited
Courses need to be held regionally
– level 2, 3
More parental involvement (3)
More competition, especially for
13+
Soccer centres – develop them
Other issues (12)
General Dimensions
How can the skills and ability of players in different age
groups be improved and developed?
Raw Data Themes
Higher Order Themes
More coach education courses –
accessible
Evening workshops/courses
Reduce cost and time of courses to
make them more attractive
Start coaching earlier
Coaching sessions before match by
home team
Increase access to coaching
courses (5)
Workshops
More level 1 courses for coaches at
younger ages
More level 2 courses nationwide
More courses
Increase number of coaching
courses (4)
More specific courses – age specific
courses
Different coaching for different
ages
Age specific coaching (4)
Age specific training for coaches (2)
Age specific courses (2)
Child mngt workshops for coaches
More age-specific courses (11)
Understand needs of players at all
ages
Look at lifestyle of players –
diet/nutrition
Look at ways of improving man
mgt and players understanding
Coaches to build character of
young players – know how players
develop
Educate coaches about laws and
skills
2 footed practice
Adopt a holistic approach to
coaching (6)
Educational packs for coaches
Manuals/cd’s/videos/websites with
ideas
Coaches must understand needs
of players – Player Development
Manual
Educational resources (3)
General Dimensions
Improve coaching courses (29)
APPENDIX 3 RESULTS OF CONSULTATION PROCESS
Raw Data Themes
Higher Order Themes
Better playing surfaces
Better facilities/more all-weather
Better facilities
Better pitches, training facilities
More equipment – needs to be
more accessible
Better facilities and equipment (5)
More investment in leagues
Pay coaches – professional
Increase investment (2)
Summer football (3)
Change to summer soccer (2)
Planned change for summer soccer
Summer soccer (6)
Promote futsal
Winter – futsal (2)
5 a side – 6, 7, 8yrs – futsal
Futsal (4)
Local club camps
Bring back street leagues
Other initiatives (2)
Get into schools (3)
Get more coaching in schools
More coaching in schools
Links with schools – adopt a school
Senior clubs must have better
relationship with schoolboy clubs
Schools (5)
SSG to older ages
More SSG’s – non-competitive
blitz
More SSG’s (4)
SSG up to U11/12 (2)
SSG – 8 per panel, everyone plays
at least 1 match
SSG to U12 age group
More 7 a side comps
7 a side for 9,10yrs – 9 a side for
11, 12, 13yrs – 11 a side for 14+
Bridge gap between 7 and
11-a-side
Expansion of Super 7 code
Small sided Games (15)
General Dimensions
Facilities & investment (7)
Introduce new initiatives (6)
Raw Data Themes
LOI clubs – better structures at
underage levels
Proper player pathway – develop
More development squads
League dev, squads for elite
players from U12-18
Development squads in every
region with RDO involvement
Regional Development Squads
Higher Order Themes
General Dimensions
Development squads (6)
Development squads &
academies (9)
Senior clubs must have youth
academies – National/Ulster
League
Get players into academies
Academies – Regional
Development Squads
Academies (3)
Parents/adults must be recruited
and educated
Adult involvement
Educate sideline
(Re)educate parents
Involve and educate parents (4)
Involve & educate parents
(Including code of conduct) (7)
Code of conduct for
spectators/parents
Leagues should implement a code
of conduct
Exclude parents
Code of conduct for parents (3)
Roll on, roll off substitution (2)
Kick in’s rather than throw in’s (2)
Take out offside rule at younger
ages
Pitch size suitable to age groups
Rules should be age appropriate –
size of pitch/goals
Flexibility of rules regarding
playing
Apply age-appropriate rules (8)
APPENDIX 3 RESULTS OF CONSULTATION PROCESS
Raw Data Themes
Higher Order Themes
Let kids play different positions (2)
Allow kids to play other sports
Players play at their level
Equal opportunities for all players
Get players to play at their own
skill level
Let girls play with boys beyond
current age if no alternative exists
Stick to their own age group
Needs of young people
Player pathway programme from
FAI to help club structures
National strategy
Director of coaching in each
league
Each club to have a development
officer
Technical Department should
monitor coaches at their clubs
Improve relationship between
leagues and clubs
FAI do more club visits
Improve structure (7)
General Dimensions
Raw Data Themes
Higher Order Themes
Using qualified coaches
More qualified coaches
Improve qualification
Better coaches (2)
Continued quality coaching
Get high level players involved
Top coaches to give a percentage
of their time to younger players
Encourage junior players to do
coach education courses – give
something back to the game
Make coaching young players
more attractive – more
recognition/appreciation
Better coaching (6)
Keep the game fun (3)
More fun, less competition (2)
Emphasis on fun up to age 12/13
then focus on competition
Fun, skill blitzes eg. IRFU
Less emphasis on victory
Less emphasis on competition at
young ages
Emphasis should be on participation rather than winning
Less competition
Good early experience for
parents, coaches and players
More fun, less competition (11)
More emphasis on skill
development
Concentrate on skills, not matches
Skill development before winning
Emphasis should be on skill rather
than winning – between 8 &
12yrs.
No competition U10 – skill
development – bring in comp.
after 12
Emphasis on skills/technique –
tricks/passing
Emphasis on technique
More emphasis on skill /
technique development (7)
More Kennedy Cup style
competitions
Graded competition structure
More flexibility in relation to
competition
Better competition structure (3)
General Dimensions
APPENDIX 3 RESULTS OF CONSULTATION PROCESS
Raw Data Themes
Higher Order Themes
Start with kids earlier
Clubs need to be encouraged to
work from U6 ages
Earlier start for players
Start children playing earlier (3)
More younger referees
Improve referees
Referees (2)
Other issues
Play against better players/teams
Players playing in their own area with local clubs
Need to address drop off level
More education for clubs - administrators
Bring international games to Laois
Stronger clubs
General Dimensions
How can the number of males and females involved in coaching,
refereeing, playing and administration be increased?
Raw Data Themes
Higher Order Themes
Improve level of coaching
Improve standard of coaching at
clubs
Pathway for coaches
Improve coaching (6)
Promote coaching courses (3)
Better promotion of coaching
courses (2)
More coaching
Promote coaching courses (6)
Improve coaching and coaching
courses (28)
Reduce cost of courses (3)
Increase frequency of courses
More coaching courses
Review the assessors on coaching
courses
Coach education courses more
spread out
Regionalise courses (2)
RDOs should be used
Improve coaching courses (10)
Compulsory courses
Compulsory qualifications in every
club
Compulsory coaching courses (2)
FAI needs to employ more women
Get girls involved at young age
with boys
More women development
officers
More women involved
More female coaches
Encourage more women to
referee
Encourage female involvement
at all levels (6)
Encourage parents to get more
involved
Parents to put pressure on schools
Get parents involved (2)
Involve parents in admin
Need to recognise and appreciate
volunteers
Get people involved
Encourage Volunteer/ Parental
involvement at all levels (7)
Get older players involved
Integrate non-nationals
Give players admin responsibility
Offer coaching while still
playing (2)
Young people to do referee
courses (2)
Clubs encourage players to ref
Get players involved at younger
General Dimensions
Encourage players’ involvement
at all levels (9)
Encourage involvement from
people at all levels (22)
APPENDIX 3 RESULTS OF CONSULTATION PROCESS
Raw Data Themes
Higher Order Themes
More funding for clubs
Equality of funding
More funding for competitions
Provide incentives linked to
funding
More funding for competitions
Tax breaks for volunteers
League secretaries paid
Compensation for clubs from LOI
clubs who use players Increase
fees for refereeing (2)
Funding (10)
Better facilities
Improve all-weather facilities
Improve standard of facilities
Improve facilities
Local coaching centres set up
Facilities (5)
More summer activities
Run summer blitzes
Summer soccer season (8)
Summer camps
Underage summer soccer
Summer soccer (12)
General Dimensions
Improve funding & facilities (15)
Year round soccer (12)
Futsal in winter (2)
Winter soccer (2)
Promote refereeing
More positive publicity for refs
Implement greater respects of refs
Treat refs better
Stop abusing referees
Pathway for referees
More communication between
refs and players
Promote refereeing (7)
Promote & ensure availability
referees (12)
All managers should do referee
courses
One qualified ref in each school
Target specific people to ref
matches
Change rule for referees and clubs
SSG – If no ref turns up get home
coach to ref
Ensure referee available for all
games (5)
Raw Data Themes
Higher Order Themes
Promote football in schools
Increase school-club links (2)
Get in to primary schools (3)
Eircom League clubs need to get
into schools
FAI put pressure on Dept of
Education
Coach education courses for
teachers
Increase soccer in schools (9)
FAS courses for referees
FAS courses for administrators
Educational courses for administrators
FAS Schemes
FAS courses for players
Women-only courses
More referee courses
More ref courses/seminars
Run additional courses (8)
Improve structures and pathways
Pathway for administrators
Turnover of executives in leagues
should be three years
“Top brass” of FAI must be more
professional
More help/support from the FAI
for grant applications
Better co-operation
Better communication between
soccer and other sports
Improve structure (7)
Parish teams
Keep players local
Need for strong community based
clubs (2)
Promote loyalty to community
club
Ensure everyone can access a team
Promote community soccer (6)
Don’t be afraid to promote
football
Try to market the game
Promote the game (2)
General Dimensions
Promote the game (6)
Encourage more media interest
Promote the game through the
media
More media coverage
Make better use of local media
Promote the game through the
media (4)
APPENDIX 3 RESULTS OF CONSULTATION PROCESS
Raw Data Themes
Higher Order Themes
Less competition, more fun
More fun
Too much emphasis on
competition
Encourage everyone to achieve
what then want
Increase playing time so players
get more time
Less emphasis on competition (5)
More competition in schools –
especially girls
Friday night competitions for
youths
More competitions
More leagues in competition
black spots
SSG at young levels
Increase competition (5)
Code of conduct for parents
Proper child protection structures
FAI introduce disciplinary code
Promote code of conduct for
referees
Ensure best practice throughout
the game (4)
Other issues
Change names of leagues – girls/boys
Get 14/15/16s playing at other times
General Dimensions
Appendix 4
Soccer Pathway
Draft Statement of Player Capacities
FUNdamental
Males 6-9/Females 6-8 years
Learning to train
Males 6-12/Females 8-11 years
Training to train
Males 12-16/Females 11-15 years
AIM: Learn all fundamental movement skills using
a well-structured, positive and fun approach
AIM: Learn all fundamental sports skills
AIM: Consolidate basic soccer skills, introduce basic
elements of tactics and build aerobic base and
strength
TECHNICAL
● Basic motor skills: proper running, jumping and
throwing technique
● Modified skills of different sports
● Knowledge of the basics of equipment
● Use of appropriate footwear and clothing
● Introduction to basic soccer skills with the ball.
TECHNICAL
● Fundamental skills progressively refined,
combined & elaborated upon to more sport specific
skills
● Willingness and knowledge of how to practise
skills
● Soccer specific skills: dribbling, shooting, passing,
controlling
● Combination of skills in game related activities
TECHNICAL
● Individualisation of skills training to address
strengths and weaknesses
● Consistency in performing skills/techniques:
passing, dribbling, controlling
● Perform skills under competitive conditions
● Develop techniques through tactical links
● Positional awareness in relation to ball and
opposition
● Passing/Possession, higher levels of ball control
● 1v1 dribbling technique
TACTICAL
TACTICAL
● Play modified and small-sided games
● Implement key game principles
● Play SSG: 9v9, 7v7, 5v5, 3v5 etc (spatial
awareness: pass and move)
● Implement defence and attack principles in SSG
● Introduction to positional awareness in a variety
of positions
● Perform basic set pieces e.g. foul throw, free
kicks
● Know rules in relation to free kicks and offside
TACTICAL
● Undergo the early stages of tactical preparation
● Implement basic team principles and positions:
team shape
● Support, showing for the ball, movement off the
ball, timing of runs and angles of receiving: ‘ShowPass-Control’
● Play effectively in SSG: 4v4, 5v5, 6v6, 7v7 games
(in training)
● Play the full 11v11 game
● Implement more advanced concepts of
attack/defence
● Play in different positions
● Understand the rules of the game
● Use of space/run into space effectively
● Read and understand the game
● Display an awareness of opposition
● Implement concepts of width and depth
PHYSICAL
● General overall development and mobility
● Running, jumping, throwing
● Agility, Balance, Co-ordination, Speed (ABCs)
● Develop speed, power and endurance through
FUN games
● Develop linear, lateral and multi-directional
speed
● Medicine ball, swiss ball and own-body exercises
for strength
● Basic body awareness – Stage 1
● Flexibility/Mobility
PHYSICAL
● Continue to develop ABCs
● Continue to develop speed, power and
endurance through fun games
● Medicine ball, swiss ball and own-body exercises
for strength as well as hopping-bounding exercises
● Basic flexibility exercises
● Warm-up and stretching
● Basic body awareness – Stage 2
● Shoulder, elbow, core, spine and ankle stability
PHYSICAL
● Emphasis on general and balanced physical
conditioning
● Aerobic training prioritised after the onset of
Peak Height Velocity (PHV)
● Strength training prioritised in females after PHV
and with the onset of menarche
● Strength training prioritised in males 12-18
months after PHV
● Shoulder, elbow, core, spine and ankle stability
● Flexibility training
● Frequent musculoskeletal evaluations during PHV
● Good body posture
● Soccer specific physical conditioning e.g. stamina,
speed, strength, suppleness, skill
● Knows how to train different components of
fitness
MENTAL
● Positive attitude to sport
● Confidence
● Concentration
● Achieve success and receive positive
reinforcement
● Enjoy the game
● Be part of the group
MENTAL
● Introduction to mental preparation
● Understanding of the role of practice
● Perseverance
● Confidence
● Concentration
● Achieve success and receive positive
reinforcement
● Goal setting (short term)
MENTAL
● Goal setting (short and medium term)
● Imagery (practicing and improving technique and
self-confidence)
● Relaxation (deep breathing)
● Patience and control
● Concentration
● Continued positive reinforcement
● Basic anxiety control
● Focusing, self-talk and verbal cues
● Balanced and winning mentality
LIFESTYLE
● Involvement in multi-sports
● Learn aspects of safety in relation to the game
LIFESTYLE
● Involvement in multi-sports
● Inclusion of sport in lifestyle
● Participation in complementary sports
LIFESTYLE
● Employ correct nutrition/hydration practices
● Training and performance diary/log
● Time management
● Introduction to planning and periodisation
● Rest and recovery
● Balance playing with social and school
● Dealing with social problems e.g. alcohol culture,
peer pressure, school, jobs etc
● Prepare for transition if going to UK
PERSONAL
Enjoyment/Fun
Fair Play
Positive Attitude
Teamwork/Interaction skills
Self esteem/confidence
PERSONAL
● Understand the changes puberty will bring
● Accept discipline and structure
● Understand the relationship between effort and
outcome
● Teamwork/interaction skills
● Parental support
● Motivation to participate
PERSONAL
● Interpersonal skills and learning to work in team
environment
● Positive communication
● Discipline and personal responsibility
● Awareness of Peak Height Velocity and windows
of trainability
● Creative thinking
● Commitment to improve/achieve goals
● Personal responsibility
● Know the basic rules and ethics of the sport
● Display basic game and movement concepts
● Play in Small Sided Games (SSG) – Basic 3v3; 5v5
in a defined area
● Implement basic attack and defence principles
●
●
●
●
●
Training to compete
Males 16-18/Females 15-17 years
Training to win
Males >18/Females >17 years
Retirement / retainment
AIM: Optimise fitness preparation and soccer-,
individual- and position-specific skills as well as
performance.
AIM: Maximise fitness preparation and soccer-,
individual- and position-specific skills as well as
performance
AIM: Enjoy a healthy, active lifestyle and retain
players for coaching, sport administration,
officiating or any other sport-related career
TECHNICAL
● Proficiency in basic soccer skills
● Soccer-specific technical and playing skills under
competitive conditions and at high intensity
● Individualisation of skills: ‘personal style’
● Consistency and control
● Competition-simulation training
TECHNICAL
● Complete refinement of soccer specific skills
● Event-/competition-specific training skills are
automatic/second nature
● Ability to improvise with skills
● Further development and refinement of soccer
specific skills
● ‘Automatic’ and consistent performance of soccer
specific skills
TECHNICAL
● Retain skills and apply in a recreational context
TACTICAL
TACTICAL
● Develop effective competition strategies
● Adapt strategies to situation
● Model all possible aspects of performance in
training
● Play to strengths, exploit weaknesses of
opponents
● Clarity of team shape and roles within
● Varying trends in the modern international
tournaments
● Maximise on National and European competition
opportunities
● Adapting to climatic conditions e.g. extreme heat
or cold, in both training and playing
● SWOT analysis (individual and team)
● Successful tactics and strategies and necessary
variation needed to winning ways
● The importance/variation/options of set-pieces in
attack/defence – organisation within
TACTICAL
● Retain recreational involvement
● Tactics to enjoy the game
PHYSICAL
● Soccer-, position- and individual-specific intensive
physical conditioning
● Shoulder, elbow, core, spine and ankle stability
● Optimum preparation: tapering and peaking
● Individualisation of physical capacities to address
strengths and weaknesses
● Dealing with environmental influence
PHYSICAL
● Maintenance and possible improvement of
physical capacities with a view to maximising
performance
● Shoulder, elbow, core, spine and ankle stability
● All physical fitness aspects individualised
● Frequent prophylactic (preventative) breaks
● Maintenance and possible improvement of
physical capacities
PHYSICAL
● Keep active through soccer participation
● Endurance training
● Strength training
● Flexibility training
MENTAL
● Personal responsibility and involvement in
decision-making
● Focus and thought control – self-talk/verbal cues
(dealing with distractions and negative thoughts)
● Goal setting (long term)
● Performance routines and pre-competition
preparation
● Imagery (competition, different
situations/problems, practising strategies)
● Anxiety control and relaxation (Progressive
Muscle Relaxation, hypnosis)
● Performance routines and pre-competition
preparation
● Basic re-focusing
MENTAL
● Independent decision-making
● Capable of teamwork and taking advice
● Well-developed, refined and individualised
mental skills and routines
● Refocusing plans/coping strategies
● Will to win/drive
● Concentration/focus
● Full range of mental skills (4 C’s)
MENTAL
● Relaxation
● Readjustment to non-competitive environment
● Ability to handle pressure/stress
LIFESTYLE
● Individualisation of ancillary supports
● Refined self-monitoring
● Plan career/sport options
● Increased knowledge on hydration and nutrition
● Preparation for different environments e.g.
heat/cold/rain/alititude
● Injury prevention and recovery
● Understand planning and periodisation
● Develop a support network
● Awareness of scholarships and compensation
schemes
LIFESTYLE
● Increased knowledge on all areas
● Rest and relaxation. Frequent breaks
● Well developed self-monitoring
● Well developed and integrated support network
/ structure
● Career / sport planning sustained
LIFESTYLE
● Pursue personal and family goals more strongly
● Pursue further education/career development
● Possible engagement in administration, coaching,
media/PR
● Seek transition support, if required
PERSONAL
● Continued personal development
● Integration of soccer, career and life goals
● Economic and independence issues addressed
PERSONAL
● Full integration of soccer, career and life goals
PERSONAL
● Reset goals
● More advanced team play and principles in the
full game
Carry out effective set-piece play
Implement different attacking styles
Individual specific role within team
Awareness of new styles/systems/plays
Develop a winning mentality and implement
‘winning tactics’
● Ability to link to players/units of team movement
on/off the ball
● Play in 11v11 format
● Develop individual strengths within confines of
team style
● Ability to read the game
● Awareness of opponent’s tactics, strengths and
weaknesses
● Event- and position-specific tactical preparation
● Principles of attack and defence
● Ability to plan and assess competition
● Adaptation to different situations
● Observe and adapt to opponents
● Detailed systems of play: strategies
● Clarity of team shape and role within the team
● Ability to deal with tactical problems
● Awareness of variations in systems/styles
● Reading the game (SWOT analysis)
● Plan and assess competition and prioritise
● Playing training game: working in SSG up to
11v11
●
●
●
●
●
APPENDIX 5 IMPLEMENTATION ROLES
FAI Board
1. Adopt the Plan as FAI policy and allocate an agreed budget
2. Review progress of the Plan on a quarterly basis
CEO
1. Lead the full integration of the Plan within the FAI, including policies; plans and budgets
FAI Management Team
1. Adopt the plan and allocate an agreed budget
2. Monitor the progress of the Plan and provide quarterly up-dates to the Board
3. Provide the marketing; communications; financial; human resource; sponsorship and other supports as
required for the full implementation of the Plan
Technical Director
1. Co-ordinate and drive the implementation of the Technical Development Plan
2. Provide quarterly reports to the FAI Management Team on the progress of the Plan
Deputy Technical Director
1. Assist Technical Director in the implementation of the Plan
2. Manage one of the main programme areas
Manager of Grass Roots Programme and Provincial Coordinators
1. Drive the implementation of the Grass Roots Programme
2. Manage the programme in all its aspects (planning; people; budget; development and delivery; evaluation)
Manager of Player Development Programme
1. Drive the implementation of the Emerging Talent and High Performance Programme
2. Manage the programme in all its aspects (planning; people; budget; development and delivery; evaluation)
Manager of FAI Education
1. Drive the implementation of Education,Training and Services Programme
2. Manage the programme in all its aspects (planning; people; budget; development and delivery; evaluation)
National Affiliates
1. Adopt, support and implement the Plan as it relates to their organisation
2. Nominate suitable representatives to the Regional Football Fora
Provincial Councils
1. Adopt, support and implement the Plan as it relates to their region
2. Support and liaise with the County Development Officer
Provincial Coordinators
1. Manage the implementation of the Plan at regional level in all its aspects (planning; people; budgets;
development and delivery; evaluation)
2. Facilitate the County Technical Fora, as convened by the County Development Officers
3. Co-ordinate the work of County Development Officers
4. Liaise with Provincial Councils and other agencies as appropriate
5. Liaise with regional/local authorities and agencies and maximise local/regional investment in the
development of the game
6. Establish positive working relationships with all agencies and personnel in the region and in line with the
agreed operational structure of FAI
7. Report to the Technical Director or his nominee and act as a team member of the Football
Development Department
Leagues
1. Adopt and implement the Plan
2. Nominate representatives to County Football Fora
3. Support and liaise with the County Development Officer
County Football Forum
1. Provide a forum in which the development of the game can be discussed within a given county
2. Develop in partnership with County Development Officer a plan for the implementation of the FAI
Technical Development Plan at county level
3. Monitor the on-going implementation of the Plan at county level
APPENDIX 5 IMPLEMENTATION ROLES
Convener: County Development Officer
Facilitator: Provincial Development Officer
Frequency: Quarterly
Regional / County Development Officers
1. Implement the Plan at county level in line with agreed targets
2. Convene the County Football Forum
3. Establish positive working relationships with all agencies and personnel in the county in line with the
agreed operational structure of FAI
4. Report to the Regional Co-coordinator and act as a team member of the FAI Football Development
Department
Coaches (part/full-time)
1.Work on the implementation of designated parts of the plan under the direction of the County
Development Officer or the Regional Development Officer, as appropriate
2. Adopt the values, philosophy and goals of the Technical Department
Regional / County Development Centres
1. Provide the facility infrastructure for quality training of identified squads within the FAI Emerging Talent
Programme and to identify future requirements in the context of the overall Facilities Development Plan
2. Provide, under the direction of FAI, coaching sessions within the context of the Emerging Talent
Programme
3. Host education and development opportunities for Leagues, clubs and coaches
4. Act as a venue for the targeted delivery of FAI Football Development Programmes
Satellite Development Centres
1. Provide access to locally based quality facilities and to identify future requirements the context of the
overall Facilities Development Plan
2. Provide quality coaching for young players, in line with the objectives set out in the Player Pathway and the
Emerging Talent Programme
3. Act as a venue for the targeted delivery of FAI Football Development Programmes
Notes
Notes
The FAI Technical Development Plan, published by New Century Publishing Tel: +00 353 1 2844 844
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