The Irish FA is investing £200,000 to support Small Sided Game (SSG) centres and youth leagues across Northern Ireland as part of its ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality, child-centred football.
The significant investment will accelerate the implementation of the Irish FA Youth Football Framework, helping more young players benefit from age-appropriate formats that prioritise enjoyment, development and increased time on the ball.
The framework is already transforming the youth football landscape. Since its introduction, the number of participants playing age-appropriate formats has increased from 63% to 83%, while 91% of stakeholders involved in 3v3 and 5v5 football this season reported a positive matchday experience.
The £200,000 investment has been targeted through a weighted scoring system that recognises participation, player retention, governance, safeguarding, inclusion, facilities and innovation.
A two-tier funding model reflects different stages of implementation.Category 1supports SSG centres and youth leagues that have fully embraced the Youth Football Framework, whileCategory 2 provides development funding for organisations progressing towards full implementation.
The Irish FA will also introduce a discretionary funding pot, opening in September, enabling SSG centres and youth leagues to apply for additional investment in projects that enhance the player experience and support the full delivery of the framework.
In addition, the Irish FA will launch a dedicated Innovation Fund to encourage new initiatives that further improve youth football, alongside its continued investment in goals, equipment and facilities.
Irish FA President Colin McKendry said:
“We are delighted to make this significant investment in youth football and to support the outstanding work being carried out by our Small Sided Game centres and youth leagues across Northern Ireland.
“The Youth Football Framework is fundamental to our vision for the future of the game. By creating the right environment for children at the right stage of their development, we are giving every young player the opportunity to enjoy football, build a lifelong love of the game and, where they have the ambition and ability, fulfil their potential within the elite pathway.
“Getting both the game and the wider environment right for young people is vital. Whether a child wants to play football simply for fun with friends or dreams of representing Northern Ireland, they deserve a positive, enjoyable and development-focused experience.
“This investment will help ensure that more young players across the country have exactly that.”
Irish FA Game Development Manager Jordan Reid added:
“This investment represents another major step in the Irish FA’s long-term commitment to raising standards across youth football in Northern Ireland.
“By investing directly in SSG centres and youth leagues that are delivering against the Youth Football Framework, we are rewarding good practice, supporting continued improvement and helping create a more consistent, high-quality experience for young players.
“At the same time, we are providing a clear pathway for organisations still on that journey, ensuring every child has the opportunity to enjoy football in the best possible environment.”
Further details on the funding process and application timelines will be communicated directly to SSG centres and youth leagues through Irish FA Game Development Officers.
