Last night at the Oscar Traynor Coaching and Training Centre in Coolock, an historic occasion took place with the first FAI/Sporting Fingal FC/NDSL coaching workshop held in conjunction with Fingal County Council Sports Office.

Catering for grassroots football coaches from the North Dublin Schoolboys/girls League, the workshop featured a mix of guest speakers and practical sessions, including FAI Technical Director Packie Bonner, FAI Underage International Manager John Morling, Sporting Fingal Manager Liam Buckley and Head Coach John Devine as well as new appointed Technical Director of the NDSL, Mitch Whitty.

A full house was in attendance and the evening was deemed a resounding success. More events for NDSL coaches were promised by the recently appointed Whitty.

Fingal County Council was fully supportive of the event, with Principal Sports Officer Marion Brown stating: “Grassroots coaching is so important to get the youngsters involved at an early age, to learn basic skills and to aspire to improve and enjoy the game. Engagement in sport is so important as it is a foundation block in building and creating community involvement.”

Tony Gains, Honorary Secretary of the NDSL, gave his backing to the venture. “Education is a must in football and we were delighted to see Sporting Fingal and the FAI row in behind us on this one with our special thanks going to Liam Buckley for his assistance.

“We believe the partnership in place between the NDSL and Sporting Fingal is unique within Irish football and has the ability to provide a pathway for elite players emerging from our league who aspire to undertake a full-time professional career in the game.”