We must show backers value of underage structure, says FAI Academy chief

Properly funding set-ups that cater for U14, U15, U17 and U17 teams, will require significant finances at a time the FAI is carrying €65m debt.

23 February 2022; The EA SPORTS National Underage Leagues 2022 season launch took place today at FAI Headquarters in Abbotstown, Dublin. The new season is set to start on the week ending Sunday, March 6. Pictured are, from left, Craig Sexton, head of academy, Bohemians, Liam Kearney, head of academy, Cork City, Mark Scanlon, League of Ireland director, Conor O'Grady, head of academy, Sligo Rovers, and Isabelle Connolly, Bray Wanderers under-17 coach. Photo by Seb Daly/Sportsfile

FAI Academy chief Will Clarke admits it will be at least 2023 before League of Ireland clubs can realistically expect financial support from the Government.

The 19 senior national clubs, plus five others accredited licenses, have been entrusted with the responsibility of developing the next generation of talent, but the area remains chronically underfunded.