The Irish Football Association’s Youth Football Framework, which was launched today, has been welcomed by football bodies across Northern Ireland.
Gerard Lawlor, chief executive of Northern Ireland Football League (NIFL), offered his support.
He said: “Reviewing current procedures and looking at new models must be welcomed and is exciting. Football trends move at pace and it’s vitally important we keep up.
“We look forward to working with the Irish FA on the plan and developing the NIFL club academies within it.”
Gerry McKee from the Northern Ireland Youth Football Association said it was also looking forward to working with the association on “implementing this ambitious framework”.
“It will require continued commitment from all youth leagues, clubs and Irish FA officers. We are excited to play a significant role in evolving youth football,” he added.
Stuart Grieve, a UEFA Grassroots Mentor, called the framework “a really exciting piece of work”.
He said: “It represents a significant and progressive step forward, aligning with Europe's highest standards of grassroots development.
“By prioritising increased participation and inclusive opportunities for all, this framework establishes a solid foundation for nurturing the next generation of international footballers while inspiring a lifelong love for the game in every community."
Ashton Shields, honorary secretary of the Northern Ireland Schools’ Football Association (NISFA), pointed out: “For schools’ football to keep growing, boys and girls need continuous opportunities to flourish.
“By aligning our pathway with the Irish FA’s Youth Football Framework we can guarantee a consistent approach within an inclusive football environment.”
The Youth Football Framework can be viewed at https://youthfootball.irishfa.com/
