The Football Association of Ireland (FAI) and Mayo, Sligo and Leitrim Education and Training Board (MSLETB), in partnership with Sligo Rovers, are launching a new Football & Education Programme (QQI Level 5 – 5M5146) in Sligo this October.
Dual Pathway: Train Like a Pro While Earning Recognised Qualifications
This full-time course offers a dual pathway for school leavers, aspiring footballers, and mature learners to pursue professional football training while earning nationally and internationally recognised qualifications. Based at the Showgrounds and Sligo Regional Sports Complex, the programme combines expert coaching with structured education in a fully supportive environment.
Academic and Industry-Recognised Learning
Participants will attend academic classes each morning and work towards a QQI Level 5 Major Award in Sport, Recreation, and Exercise. Modules include:
- Exercise & Fitness
- Sports Anatomy
- Nutrition
- Leisure Facility Administration
- And more
Additional certifications include:
- ITEC Level 2 Gym Instructor Diploma
- FAI Coaching Badges
- Lifeguard Certification
These qualifications create clear progression pathways to employment or further education.
Professional Football Development
Afternoons are dedicated to football development, with training five days a week delivered by UEFA-qualified coaches including Mickey Feeney and Leo Tierney. Sessions cover all technical, tactical, and physical elements of the modern game. Learners will also represent the programme in competitive fixtures across Ireland.
What They Said
“After 20 years of success with our training course in Mayo, we now have a brilliant opportunity, in partnership with Sligo Rovers FC and the MSLETB, to deliver the FAI Football and Education Programme in the north-west region. Having witnessed the development of young people through this pathway over the years—both in life and in their career choices, on and off the pitch—we’re excited to see what the future holds with this new beginning. Being able to help and support both female and male learners to reach their potential is incredibly rewarding for us, and we look forward to continuing the journey with a new generation of players.”
— Leo Tierney, FAI Course Coordinator
“Moving our Football and Education Programme to Sligo Rovers FC gives us a fantastic opportunity to grow and develop. The programme is open to both males and females, and it will provide all participants with the chance to further both their education and football development.”
— Michael Feeney, Assistant Coordinator
“Sligo Rovers are delighted that the ETB programme is moving to the Showgrounds. This marks the result of years of hard work. We strongly believe in combining football and education for all our players. This move allows more boys and girls within our academy to pursue both. It’s another positive step forward as the club continues to build and grow across all areas.”
— Conor O’Grady, Head of Academy, Sligo Rovers
Elite Facilities and Full Support
Sligo Rovers are providing elite-level training facilities including:
- Showgrounds pitches
- On-site gym
- Video analysis suites
Students also gain access to the Sligo Sports Complex gym and swimming pool.
Course Information
- Start Date: 13 October
- Location: The Showgrounds & Sligo Regional Sports Complex
- Entry Requirements: Minimum NFQ Level 4 + interview & evaluation
- Fees: No course fees for eligible full-time learners
- Supports: Accommodation or travel allowance, career guidance, progression to third-level
How to Apply
For full course details and to apply, visit:
www.fetchcourses.ie/course/finder?sfcw-courseId=481708