Grassroots Features

In a special interview with irishfa.com Steven tells us why he decided to become an IFA Grassroots Development Officer, a bit about what exactly his job involves and what he thinks is the most important part of the grassroots development programme.

1) What made you decide to become a Grassroots Development Officer?

When the posts were advertised I jumped at the opportunity and applied for a Grassroots job.  Being involved in football at the local level I was all too aware of the success of the Grassroots programme.  I thought it was the natural progression having been involved in football from a very early age from boys’ brigade football to boys’ club to full time football to senior football in Northern Ireland.  I have always been involved in coaching and youth work and felt a lot of my skills and experience could be applied to the job.

2) Can you tell us a bit about what your job involves?

The GDO job is diverse and includes everything from curriculum based coaching programmes to coach education to developing community relations.  No two days are the same and you can go from coaching in a school to facilitating a coaching award to arranging a fun week or league competition.      

3) How do you think the new Development Centres and Officers will benefit grassroots football in Northern Ireland?

The Development centres provide a safe and enjoyable introduction for children involved in football with a player centred approach and will increase and sustain participation in the game.  The programme will not only raise the standard of the game in Northern Ireland but also develop the players, coaches, teachers and volunteers involved in it.  There are the obvious health benefits of being involved in a physical activity and children will also develop important life skills through the programme.  The programme will act as the first step on a player pathway providing players with the opportunity reach their potential based on the ability or personal requirement.                 

4) What do you enjoy most about your job?

For me to be able to say that I am involved in football as an occupation is great. Every day is different and the enjoyment of those involved in the programme is a real feel good factor. 

5) What would you say is the most important part of the Programme?

I think to provide a qualitative and quantitive programme ensuring that those involved have fun and are retained in the game.

6) Do you play football yourself?

The term ‘more clubs than Jack Nichlaus’ probably applies to myself, I’m currently playing and enjoying my football with the H&W Welders in the first division.            

7) If you could play just one game for any team in the world, who would it be and why and who would it be against?

As a Liverpool supporter to play for Liverpool against the great AC Milan from the 90’s which included Gullit, Van Basten, Rikjaard, Donadoni, Baresi, and Maldini would be a dream.