The FAI has credited the Dormant Accounts Fund, administered by Sport Ireland, with playing a vital role in the ongoing success and expansion of its Football For All (FFA) programme, a national initiative that promotes inclusivity in football for individuals with additional needs.
Over a number of years, the Dormant Accounts Fund has provided sustained financial support that has allowed the FFA programme to grow, delivering targeted resources to grassroots clubs and ensuring that football remains accessible to all members of the community.
The funding has helped clubs meet the FAI Club Mark standard, a benchmark of quality in programme delivery and inclusive practice.
Through this support, clubs across Ireland have been able to launch new Football For All sections, receive essential equipment to run weekly sessions, and host FFA Blitz Days that encourage inter-club engagement and community participation.
The positive outcomes of this funding are already visible across the country.
One example is a unique partnership between Albion Rovers FC and Walshestown FC, two neighbouring clubs that have come together to run a joint FFA programme.
This collaboration has enabled them to combine resources and expertise, providing greater opportunities for young people with additional needs to participate in club football.
Patrick O’Reilly, the FAI’s Football For All Coordinator, expressed the Association’s appreciation for the ongoing support.
“We are incredibly proud of our Football For All programme and deeply grateful for the continued, multi-year support from the Dormant Accounts Fund. This funding is crucial for breaking down barriers to participation,” he said.
“The innovative partnership between Albion Rovers and Walshestown FC exemplifies the spirit of community football and inclusivity that FFA champions. It’s a fantastic model, and we encourage other clubs to consider similar collaborative approaches.”
O’Reilly added that the FAI remains fully committed to using the Dormant Accounts Fund to ensure the continued growth of the programme and to reinforce its mission to modernise football and make it accessible for everyone in Ireland.
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