The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) has completed its first century and is well placed to successfully embark on its second, FAI Chairman Gerry McAnaney said on Monday after meeting UEFA President Aleksander Čeferin at the European House of Football in Nyon.
“Our association’s centennial marked a period of significant progress on our transformation journey to become a modern, progressive organization fit for purpose,” said McAnaney.
Solid foundations
During his meeting with the UEFA President, Mr McAnaney indicated that in 2021 the FAI had taken significant steps to stabilize its finances by increasing its income, reducing its costs and tapping into government subsidies national to support football programs as well as the COVID-19 relief fund. He also outlined a series of governance reforms at the FAI.
“It was a pleasure to welcome FAI President Gerry McAnaney and CEO Jonathan Hill to UEFA headquarters,” said Mr Čeferin. “It was great to hear first hand about the reforms that are set to help Irish football grow in the years to come. As committed stakeholders, we look forward to supporting the FAI in its work with the Irish Government to improve facilities for all players and clubs across Ireland.”
Mr Hill added: “Irish football at all levels has emerged stronger from the COVID-19 pandemic with renewed interest in our international teams, increased attendance at League of Ireland matches and of the Women’s National League and tremendous momentum among grassroots leagues and clubs.”
‘We are a’
The FAI’s long-term vision for the development of the national game is set out in its 2022-2025 strategy called “We Are One” and launched earlier this year. Based on extensive input from across Irish football – including players, supporters, coaches, administrators, staff, parents and volunteers – the strategy aims to improve facilities, strengthen grassroots football , to develop the game for women and girls and to define a new future for the League of Ireland.
“Football is Ireland’s most important sport,” said Mr Hill. “To implement this strategy, the game must come together like never before.”
