McGinley Selected for Ireland U15 Squad
Megan McGinley has been chosen to join the Ireland Girls’ Under-15 team for their upcoming UEFA Development Tournament in Spain this month. McGinley is a goalkeeper who represents Milford United at club level.
Team Formation and Tournament Details
This new U15 team is formed following the successful National Pathways Programme pilot held over the summer. The programme featured three-day residential camps across eight weeks, involving over 50 players in this age group.
The Ireland Girls’ Under-16 Head Coach, Tom Elmes, will manage the squad during three matches against Poland on November 11th, Spain on November 13th, and Norway on November 16th in Alicante. These fixtures offer some of Ireland’s most talented young players their first international experience.
FAI’s Perspective on the New Team
“The introduction of an international team at Girls’ Under-15 level ensures that players experience international football earlier in their journey, which will ultimately aid their long-term development,” said FAI Technical Director Shane Robinson.
“This new step, which is being trialled, builds directly on the work of our National Pathways Programme and shows our commitment to providing more meaningful football experiences for young players across the country. We’re excited to see this group begin their journey together in Spain, and we’re hugely appreciative of the clubs and leagues whose work continues to support each player’s development.”
Summary
The formation of Ireland’s U15 girls’ team and their first international outing in Spain marks an important milestone in developing young talent earlier in their football careers.