The Irish FA Foundation is seeking expressions of interest from clubs across Northern Ireland who would like to get involved in the UEFA Disney Playmakers programme.
The pan-European participation initiative, powered by Disney stories, has already introduced tens of thousands of girls aged five to eight to football across Europe.
Dozens of clubs in Northern Ireland have run Playmakers sessions in recent years with the aim of getting more young girls enjoying the game through movement, play and storytelling.
Now the Irish FA Foundation is inviting more clubs to potentially get involved in the coming months.
Marissa Callaghan, Women’s Football Development Officer with the Foundation, explained: “The purpose of this initiative is to support clubs to develop their girls pathway by introducing football to young girls who are not currently participating, and to widen the base of girls involved in football.
“The Playmakers programme provides a fun, magical and engaging entry point to football through the power of Disney storytelling. Together we can foster inclusivity and participation by creating safe and welcoming environments where girls feel comfortable and excited to participate within clubs’ pathways.”
She pointed out that clubs who run Playmakers sessions will help to create a positive and inclusive environment for girls to discover the joy of football.
The Foundation is inviting all interested clubs to initially fill in an expression of interest form.
Marissa said: “Successful clubs will receive comprehensive training, support from Irish FA Foundation Development Officers and resources and equipment packs to deliver the programme effectively.”
Clubs can register their expression of interest here.
Forms can be submitted up until Wednesday 11 February.
