The Irish Football Association last week confirmed details of its plans to create a new state-of-the-art, multi-million pound National Football Centre as part of a significant strategic investment which will inspire a new generation to reach their full potential.
Located on a 50-acre site opposite the renowned Galgorm Hotel near Ballymena, the new facility will feature world-class pitches and cutting-edge training facilities, fully realising the association’s ambition to create a project “that will become the beating heart of Northern Ireland’s football community, supporting both elite and grassroots players.”
A range of potential opportunities were explored across the country and, following a comprehensive review of all the options, Galgorm was chosen as the most compelling, best-fit opportunity to develop the facility.
The facility will also serve Northern Ireland’s international squads whilst aiming to support the charitable and community activities of the Irish FA Foundation.
“Realising this project will significantly benefit our teams and players, creating an impressive football campus and leaving a lasting legacy for future generations,” said Irish FA President Conrad Kirkwood.
“We anticipate the National Football Centre being a bespoke, world-class facility with a distinct Northern Ireland identity, serving players of all ages, both male and female, while also benefiting the local community and grassroots football.”
“This exciting announcement marks the partnership of two major global brands which are united by a shared commitment to excellence and to supporting our communities,” added Colin Johnston, Managing Director at Galgorm.
“We’re immensely proud to be playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of football in Northern Ireland, supporting the success of our national teams while fostering growth at every level of the game.”
The facility will complement the National Football Stadium at Windsor Park in Belfast, creating a dual campus set-up to strengthen Northern Ireland’s football infrastructure.
“This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Irish FA Chief Executive, Patrick Nelson. Projects like this don’t happen overnight, and this is the result of significant strategic thinking.”
“We have been able to amass capital funding over a long period to make this vision a reality, and we look forward to working with our partners at Galgorm in the coming years.”
“Facilities are crucial to our ongoing development as a football nation,” added Aaron Hughes, Irish FA Technical Director This partnership provides an excellent opportunity to gain a competitive edge in preparation, planning and development at all levels.”
The project has also received resounding support from Northern Ireland’s senior international managers, Michael O’Neill and Tanya Oxtoby.
Further Reading for Sport for Business members: NI Football to Benefit from £36M NI Executive Football Fund
SPORT FOR BUSINESS PERSPECTIVE
The creation of a centre of excellence for football in Northern Ireland is a winner for the sport and those who play at every level. It will be great to follow this project as it comes to life.
WHAT’S UP NEXT?
Patrick Nelson will be a guest on the Sport for Business podcast later this month.
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