EXPLAINER | What is the FAI National Pathways Programme?

More than 250 of Ireland’s most promising young footballers have spent their summer immersed in an international environment, following the launch of the FAI’s new National Pathways Programme (NPP) pilot. Running from July to the end of August, the pilot has brought together boys and girls born in 2010 and 2011 (U16 & U15) at the FAI National Training Centre in Abbotstown. The programme is delivered on an alternating basis — girls one week, boys the next — ensuring each group receives focused attention and quality contact time. The focus is clear: support each player’s individual development through a best v best training environment that challenges players. Every session is delivered in a way that reflects our values, encouraging players to play with joy and passion, and to take ownership of their own development.