Spar provided more than 70 of their retailers' children with the opportunity to meet and compete with the Republic of Ireland football players.
The young footballers were presented with the opportunity to train with ROI players, Seamus Coleman, David Meyler and Jonathan Hayes at the team’s training camp in the National Sports Campus in advance of the Republic of Ireland vs Wales this coming Friday (24 March).
The kids were also joined by Amanda McQuillan, Jamie Finn and Roma McLaughlin of the Republic of Ireland women’s senior team where they learned new soccer skills at the FAI masterclass.
According to Colin Donnelly, Spar Sales Director, “It was fantastic to see the children train with the Irish team today and we hope it is a day that they will remember for a long time. As a community based retailer, Spar is proud to be a supporter of primary schools’ soccer in association with the FAI.
"Spar local retailers around the country have been supporting this programme for three years now and it is great to be able to thank them for their ongoing support here today.” He added.
The Spar FAI Primary School 5s competition, has over 28,256 participants from 1,483 schools resulting in 3,532 teams participating this year, a 19% surge from last year.
Fergus McDaid, Secretary of FAI Schools stated, “This is our third year with title sponsors Spar and the competition has grown yet again and now firmly holds the title of the largest primary schools’ competition in the country. Spar’s ongoing support, both nationally and at a local level, has ensured the ongoing success of the programme and given children an opportunity to get involved in a professionally-run, fun and inclusive programme."
"The programme encourages children to become involved in soccer at an early age and emphasizes the fun aspect of the sport. FAI Schools look forward to welcoming schools to the National Finals on Wednesday, May 31 in Aviva Stadium. We would also like to extend our thanks to all schools who have participated in 2017.” McDaid Concluded.
© 2017 - Checkout Magazine by Donna Ahern
