EVERY SATURDAY @11AM

SHANKILL F.C.

GIRLS ACADEMY

Having been involved in the Women's game since 1990, it was always my ambition to have a Girls Academy run by girls. In the early days, Aine O'Gorman as a teenager worked with me coaching both boys, girls, and men. Then Aoibh Hall started off and has gone on to another level. Young girls Laura and Sarah are on the same pathway and watching them on Saturday Morning coaching, and their interaction with the young girls has me thinking my ambition can be realised. There are always those behind the scenes who keep everything ticking over and provide much needed support, not only to the girls but to our coaches. We have been blessed over the years in that regard. To mention a few, Amanda, Lisa, Barry and Carlos and their combined efforts have helped hugely over the years.. The girls on and off the pitch will ensure the girls game in Shankill has a bright future.

The mission of the Shankill FC Girls Academy is to provide young girls with a fun, positive introduction to football. We teach the basic fundamentals of the game in a safe, friendly, and relaxed environment, ensuring every child enjoys a positive experience. This academy marks the beginning of the journey for girls aspiring to play competitive football, but it is equally perfect for those who simply want to join our Saturday Morning Programme, make friends, and stay active. We are small and take it nice and softly, nothing rushed. Out of small acorns, big trees grow. Our young girls will be taught the same way, with the advantage of having female coaches and mentors. While not every player aims to follow in the footsteps of Aisling Meehan, who started her journey right here before playing for Ireland and a US College—we cater to every girl's individual goals. A special mention must go to Barry Hall who has for years now worked hard both on and off the pitch for the benefit of ladies football, not just in Shankill but in the wider community.

2001 Girls Academy players have a lot in common with our present-day youngsters. Both sets of players like encouragement, and fun. They all want to learn and improve and by nature are competitive. Now we know how the player thinks we should be able to adopt our training programme to suit.