Economy Minister praises Irish FA and Irish FA Foundation for boosting skills base
Northern Ireland’s Economy Minister, Diane Dodds, has praised the work of the Irish Football Association in helping build the skills base of the local community.
The Minister met with community outreach staff from the Irish FA and heard about the work of the Irish FA Foundation, which has helped thousands of young people acquire a range of accredited qualifications since it was established in 2017.
She said: “The IFA Foundation does excellent work in the local community building the skills base of young people. The foundation helps young people attain vocational qualifications that not only make them more employable but also boost their confidence and desire to potentially go on and study for more qualifications in future.
New U19s and U17s boss Gerard Lyttle appoints support team
New Northern Ireland Under-19 and Under-17 manager Gerard Lyttle has revealed the make-up of his backroom team – and it contains some well-known names.
Prolific Irish League striker Andy Waterworth is his choice as assistant manager, while legendary Northern Ireland centre back Gareth McAuley will be a coach.
And another Northern Ireland legend, goalkeeper Roy Carroll, has agreed to be the goalkeeping coach for both teams.
New assistant manager Waterworth, who is still leading the line for Linfield in what has been a goal-laden career, has been embracing coaching since 2002.