THE FOOTBALL ASSOCIATION of Ireland today confirmed that it has approved funding for the Shamrock Rovers Academy.

The €180,000 fee which the association has provided for the club will support the following:

• Completion of Phase One (natural grass pitches, Fifa Pro all-weather pitch)
• Completion of development plans for Phase Two (which includes a footballing building, 7-a-side pitch, outdoor gym, modular dressing rooms)

Speaking in reaction to the news, FAI CEO John Delaney said: “The FAI Board was hugely impressed by the level of ambition and strategic vision demonstrated by Shamrock Rovers when it presented its plans to the board.

In approving significant support for Shamrock Rovers and the club’s development of its academy, the FAI is demonstrating an ongoing commitment to the continued development of this excellent facility, in line with the club’s strategic plan.”

Shamrock Rovers chairman Jonathan Roche added: “We would like to thank the FAI for their assistance in our development of the Shamrock Rovers Academy and training centre, which is already into the second phase and proving to be hugely beneficial to our teams at all levels.

Phase One has been a huge success for all involved and with the backing of the FAI and our partners at Roadstone Group Sports Club we can now complete the second and final phase that will enable us to deliver on our strategic objective of providing the best possible pathway for player development in this country.

“The backing of the FAI in putting our five-year strategic plan into practice is essential to the future of the club and we welcome their support and assistance. This is an exciting period for the club and we look forward to our Academy helping to strengthen Shamrock Rovers FC as a whole.”

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