Children’s football coach removed from role after ‘drugs menu’ WhatsApp group post

It is understood the WhatsApp group contained coaches from a large number of children’s football teams. File picture

A coach has been removed from his position with a children’s football club after posting an image of what appeared to be a drugs menu to a group chat.

The message, which was later removed but has been seen by the Press Association, included prices, how to pay, a list of meet-up points and the statement “time wasters will be blocked”.

It is understood the WhatsApp group contained coaches from a large number of children’s football teams but that youngsters were not part of the conversation.

A Belfast football club later posted a message on social media stating that “this type of behaviour is completely unacceptable”.

The statement said: “The coach involved has been permanently removed with immediate effect.

“We can confirm that all appropriate vetting procedures were followed in accordance with IFA guidelines, and this situation has come as a shock to all of us.

“As a community club, we pride ourselves on putting the best interests of our players first.” The statement said the club was “treating this matter with the utmost urgency and will continue to manage it appropriately”.

The Fonacab Development League also posted a statement on social media stating it “cannot monitor or control every message shared between coaches when organising fixtures or availability”.

It said: “However, we do have clear expectations of behaviour, and any conduct that breaches safeguarding or professionalism will be addressed immediately.

“Our responsibility is to protect the well-being of every child and uphold the values the league is built on.

“Thank you to the many coaches who consistently meet those expectations.”