A week into the UEFA Women’s Under-17 Championship in Northern Ireland, the tournament is already proving to be an inspirational occasion both on and off the pitch, showcasing elite young talent, uniting communities and providing a platform for the continued growth of the women’s game.
The opening seven days of the competition have delivered memorable moments, none more significant than Northern Ireland’s famous victory over Germany in their final group game on Sunday, while crowds across the country have embraced the opportunity to watch some of Europe’s brightest young players in action.
Irish FA Board member Cheryl Lamont CBE DL, who also serves on both the UEFA Women’s Committee and the FIFA Women’s Development Committee, praised UEFA’s decision to host the UEFA Women’s Under-17 Championship in Northern Ireland, describing it as a significant moment for the game locally and internationally.
“It is an absolute privilege and pleasure for us to host such a prestigious tournament,” said Lamont. “When you consider that UEFA is made up of 55 member associations, it is a tremendous credit to everyone at the Irish FA who work so hard to maintain Northern Ireland’s reputation as one of the leading destinations for hosting elite youth tournaments.
“I’ve had the opportunity to attend Northern Ireland against England at Inver Park on the opening day, as well as France versus Spain at Coleraine Showgrounds last Friday, and the quality, professionalism and atmosphere at both matches were outstanding. I’m looking forward to taking in more games as the tournament progresses.
“I would like to commend all of the participating national associations for the excellent standard of football on display, along with the coaches, staff, volunteers and administrators whose hard work has made the tournament such a success. The support from fans right across the country has also been fantastic.
“The future of women’s football is incredibly bright and exciting. This tournament has showcased some of the very best young talent in the European game and I’m already looking forward to what promises to be a superb final. Best wishes to all of the teams as they continue their journey towards the final.”
Behind the scenes, months of planning and collaboration have helped deliver a seamless opening week, according to Irish FA Project Leader for the tournament Pete Gilpin.
“Preparations for the UEFA Women’s Under-17 Championship began almost two years ago, so it has been incredibly rewarding to see the tournament come to life over the opening week,” he said.
“We have been working very closely with more than 30 UEFA staff on site, alongside our venues, suppliers, volunteers and local partners, to ensure all key operational areas are delivered to a high standard.
“Across the first week, we have been really pleased with how venue operations, accommodation, transport, team services and volunteer support have come together, while the youth programmes have also helped young people engage with the tournament and be inspired by some of the best young female players in Europe.”
Director of Women’s Football Angela Platt said the togetherness surrounding the tournament had been one of its defining features.
“It is wonderful to see the work going on every day behind the scenes to make a tournament like this possible,” said Platt. “From the Irish FA delivery team working hand in hand with UEFA, to the volunteers and Team Liaison Officers, to our match officials and referees team, there has been togetherness and collaboration right at the heart of it.
“I also want to acknowledge the role of the host clubs Larne and Coleraine, who have been so accommodating. The fact this tournament allows us to take games around the country is a brilliant by-product which can only serve to inspire future generations.
“On the pitch, it has been a great opportunity for our team to test themselves against the very best in Europe. The players and staff, led by Gail Redmond, have prepared thoroughly and they have certainly captured the imagination of the fans, who have been magnificent.
“I am so proud to see Northern Ireland showcased on the global stage in this manner and to welcome colleagues from across Europe to experience our beautiful country.”
Senior women’s manager Michael McArdle has also spent time observing and supporting throughout the tournament, describing the experience as invaluable for both players and staff.
“I am learning so much from simply being in and around this tournament,” he said. “The teams we’ve played so far, England, Norway, and Germany dwarf Northern Ireland in terms of size, so it is a reminder that we are competing at the very elite of the game at this level.
“What an experience for the girls to get so early in their careers. It has given me a great chance to support, make connections and see some of the talent coming through our pathway.
“Gail and the staff have ensured the girls are operating in an outstanding environment, with some of the players also balancing school exams, so huge credit must go to them for putting those structures in place. It is care both on and off the field.”
With the knockout stages still to come, the tournament is already leaving a lasting impression not only through the football being played, but through the sense of pride, inspiration and opportunity being created across the country.
