The smiles on their faces said it all as the 2023 Aviva Soccer Sisters programme ended in the best possible way – with girls enjoying playing football.
In operation since 2010, with the support of Aviva Ireland, the programme has traditionally run Easter camps but adopted a new format this year to focus on the development of all members at Grassroots clubs.
The objective of this year’s programme was to retain girls, aged 7-14, in football by developing the skills and raising awareness of different elements of the sport among both coaches and parents.
To support this, FAI Development Officers delivered 53 tailored coaching modules to help increase coaches’ awareness of specific topics in relation to the girl’s game including personal development, friendships, the menstrual cycle and more.
They delivered a parent’s awareness workshop to back this up with the necessary support and information to create the best environment for young players on, and especially off the pitch.
In total, 880 coaches and 520 parents took part in the programme, which included 850 blitzes and 770 practical sessions.
While the focus was on supporting coaches and parents to better aid the development of girls, the element of fun was not lost and could be clearly seen at the Finals Blitz in Aviva Stadium.
Teams from all around the country took part, and as can be seen above had an enjoyable day.
