The FAI is hoping to break through 25,000 school children taking part in the 2017 SPAR FAI Primary School 5s Programme.
The five-a-side school blitzes are open to boys and girls from 4th, 5th and 6th class, and will take place from the end of February.
Republic of Ireland Manager Martin O’Neill and former International Keith Andrewes were at the Aviva Stadium yesterday to launch the the tournament.
Winning schools progress from County level to regional then provincial finals, with the lucky few making it all the way to the National Finals at the Aviva Stadium on May 31st.
“SPAR are very proud to be involved with this programme, which gives boys and girls nationwide the opportunity to represent their school in a national level competition.”
“The level of enthusiasm shown by students and teachers taking part in the programme has been fantastic and is helping to drive the programme to new levels.”
“We have 400 high quality, conveniently located outlets spread across the country who are equally as enthusiastic about this programme, which allows us to give back to our loyal customers and help support schools and communities across the country.”
“The competition has gone from strength to strength in recent years thanks to the assistance of our sponsors, SPAR,” added Seán Carr, FAI Schools Chairman.
“The nationwide spread of schools who are choosing to take part, and the increase in female participation, which now stands at 9,320 students is particularly pleasing.”
There will be a strong social media promotion of the games this year following the hashtag #SPAR5s.
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