The Goalposts have shifted and shrunk for TG4’s popular UNDERDOGS series which is taking time out from Gaelic Games this year to focus on Women’s Football of the 11-a-side variety.
While the Ireland Women’s National Team head for Australia and New Zealand for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, back at a grassroots level club players will also have a massive opportunity to play in the big leagues.
Adare Productions and TG4, in conjunction with the FAI, are looking to find a squad of ambitious women with enough drive, skill and passion to take on one of the top SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division teams.
“We are delighted to support this initiative which will provide an opportunity and a pathway for players to the game, who may have stepped away from football for a number of reasons, whether due to work, study, family or other commitments,” said FAI League of Ireland Director Mark Scanlon.
“We hope that Underdogs will be an important first step for players who still harbour the ambition to play at the highest level of football in Ireland at an exciting time in the development and growth of women’s football not only here but around the world.”
“The Underdogs Series has been a long-standing and regular staple in TG4’s schedule over many years and we eagerly await the new season,” added TG4 Head of Sport, Rónán Ó Coisdealbha.
“In what is a hugely exciting year for Women’s football, we look forward to working with the FAI and Adare Productions in unearthing the next Underdogs squad.”
Players will be chosen and trained by a panel of expert coaches. This is an opportunity for players who have not played in the SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division for at least three years, whoi have never played at international level and who are over 18 on June 3rd this year.
Players can apply online at www.tg4.ie/underdogs. Nationwide trials will take place in June 2023.
