Doyle launches 3's €10m football club funding programme

Irish international Kevin Doyle was on hand to launch to a special fund to aid the grassroots development of Irish football today.

Irish national football team sponsors, mobile phone firm 3, today announced a programme offers FAI affiliated clubs the chance of earning cash when their members switch to 3.

To date, more than 450 clubs have switched at least one member to 3, with Drogheda United topping the table by already securing €900 for the club.

In total €53,150 has already been committed to clubs across the country.

The club offer is open to all club members, supporters’, friends and family who switch to 3.

Speaking at the launch, Doyle said: “This is a terrific initiative and one which I’m delighted to lend my support to, I’m confident that the fund put in place by 3 today will be of huge benefit to clubs up and down the country no matter how big or small they are.”

Speaking at the announcement, 3 CEO Robert Finnegan said: “I’m delighted to be able to announce our €10m fund for Irish football.

“When we came on board as official sponsors of the FAI back in August we promised to match our ambitions with real action to help the grass roots of Irish football.

“This €10m fund gives clubs, big and small, all across the country, the opportunity to earn money to help them run their clubs on a daily basis.

“I encourage every Irish football fan to get behind this initiative and help us invest more in the future of Irish football. I would also like to take this opportunity to thank Kevin Doyle for his involvement in helping us promote this initiative.

“I know many young players are inspired by Kevin’s success and with this fund, we at 3 are committed to supporting these rising stars of the future.”