Players at the Irish FA JD Academy have been learning about the positives and negatives surrounding social media.
A Social Media Awareness Workshop was held for players based at Belfast’s Campbell College who are in year one of the two-year academy programme.
The workshop was designed to equip the participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate the digital world safely and responsibly. It was delivered by Damian McLaughlin, a development officer with the Irish FA Foundation.
He provided the players with actionable advice and discussed the potential benefits and pitfalls of social media use.
The session covered essential topics, including:
Online Reputation: the lasting impact of digital content and the importance of maintaining a positive online image, especially as developing footballers.
Privacy Settings: practical steps to secure personal information and manage who can view posts.
Cyberbullying and Harassment: recognising, preventing and reporting negative interactions online.
Professional Conduct: understanding expected behaviours online when representing the Irish FA JD Academy and Campbell College on and off the pitch.
Kris Lindsay, Irish FA JD Academy Manager, said: "We recognise the critical role that social media plays in the lives of young players today.
“Providing our academy players with this awareness workshop is integral to their holistic development. We are grateful to Damian McLaughlin and the Irish FA Foundation for delivering such an insightful and impactful session."
He pointed out the Irish FA JD Academy is committed to supporting the academy players both on and off the pitch, ensuring they develop into well-rounded individuals prepared for the challenges of modern life and professional sport.
