TOP MARKS FOR GRASSROOTS FOOTBALL

Release Date: 11/01/2012

2011 saw the commencement of McDonald’s new four year Community Partnership with the Irish Football Association.

The new initiative builds upon the successful partnership which was first established in 2002 and introduced a number of new elements designed to enhance the structure of the game at grassroots level and deliver a lasting legacy for the local game;

Club Accreditation Scheme

A new club charter mark was introduced to raise standards for local football clubs and ensure they have appropriate measures in place in terms of coach education, safety, child protection, refereeing etc. 45 clubs per year get assistance and support through the club accreditation process, with the first batch of clubs having completed the process in late 2011.

Coach Education and mentoring

90 coaches each year receive assistance in attaining recognised coaching qualifications through the new McDonald’s Irish FA Community Partnership. To ensure standards remain high and that new coaches receive all the support they need a further 90 coaches also receive ongoing coach mentoring annually.

Small Sided Games Centres

McDonald’s Irish FA Small Sided Games Centres operate regionally throughout Northern Ireland and provide an excellent mechanism for player development. This approach ensures that young players are given the best possible opportunity to develop well-rounded skills, at their own level. Currently 15 centres operate in venues across NI, with 491 teams and over 5,000 children participating in small sided games.

McDonald’s Irish FA Community Awards

November saw the inaugural McDonald’s Irish FA Community Awards where the heroes of grassroots football were recognised for their hard work, dedication and commitment to the local game at an awards evening attended by McDonald’s Football Ambassadors Pat Jennings, Sir Geoff Hurst and Eric Harrison.

Player Escorts

Walking out with Northern Ireland at Windsor Park is a dream for many young fans and McDonald’s and the Irish FA have provided this opportunity for 44 lucky children throughout 2011. 2012 will see more young fans receiving this once in a lifetime opportunity.

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Over 5,000 children participated in McDonald’s IFA Small Sided Games Centres throughout Northern Ireland in 2011.
Michael McGlade from Cappagh Spurs FC was named Coach of the Year at the McDonald’s Irish FA Community Awards and received his award from McDonald’s Football Ambassadors Sir Geoff Hurst, Pat Jennings and Eric Harrison.

Grassroots

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