World Cup fever boosts girls' involvement in Blitz

The event was a culmination of the FAI/Fingal County Council summer long initiatives to provide more opportunities for girls in the community.

It started with a pre-World Cup blitz in Dublin 15 for the youngest ages, World Cup watch parties, the launch of the FAI/Fingal Girl's Transition Year programme, the new and exciting FCC/FAI MentHERship program, female-only Coach Education courses and the most recent blitz in the AUL with support from Swords Pavilions.

The event in the AUL allowed girls aged Under 8 to Under 12 put their club jersey on for the first time. The excitement from parents and spectators seeing their daughters start their football journey was a joy to behold.

With the sponsorship from Swords Pavilions, a healthy eating educational piece was also built into the event for all coaches to pass on information to their players and parents. Delivered by Laura of Bridge Nutrition coaches were given basic tips in hydration, healthy snacks, and nutrition for recovery. Fruit and drinks were also provided for on the day by FAI partners Circle K, Ballygowan and Energise Sport.

The event was in the main non-trophy but competitive with two competitions at the Under 12 age group. Congratulations to both Malahide United FC and Ballyoulster FC for their success on the day. 

Commenting on the event Fingal County Council principal sports officer Gerry Reardon said: “It was fantastic to be in the AUL alongside Mayor of Fingal Adrian Hency to see first-hand the excitement this event was able to generate. A key focus for the sports department in Fingal County Council is to provide more opportunities in a healthy and proactive way. This event lent itself to this and showcased the collaboration between our sports office and our co-funded FAI Development Officers.”

Ian Hunter, Centre director of Swords Pavilions, added: “The girls blitz allows us in Swords Pavilions to support sport in our community. It was fantastic to see so many girls attend and a special thanks to the volunteer coaches from the clubs who give up so much of their own time. The healthy eating angle was important to us and we were delighted to see how this was received. I would like to thank FAI/FCC Development Officers Paul, Sharon, Jamie, and Sean and all the team on the day for a fantastically well-organised event.”