Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board has approved the application by Treaty United FC to partner with its College of Further Education and Training to deliver a new Player Development Programme. The announcement this week represents a significant step forward for football and further education and training in Limerick and the Mid-West region, creating a structured dual pathway that combines elite football development with a fully-accredited QQI Level 5 qualification in Sport and Recreation.
The new programme will commence in September 2026 and will recruit 24 learners annually, providing participants with a unique opportunity to pursue full-time football training alongside recognised education qualifications. The Player Development Programme previously operated nationally for over 15 years as part of an FAI–ETB framework. Under Treaty United’s delivery, the programme will be fully-aligned with the club’s philosophy, performance standards and player welfare model.
Speaking about the announcement, Paul Patton, Director of FET at Limerick and Clare ETB said: “We warmly welcome this exciting partnership with Treaty United FC. The Player Development Programme offers young people a unique pathway to develop their football talent while gaining recognised qualifications, opening doors to further education, apprenticeships, and future careers. It’s a fantastic example of how sport and education can work hand-in-hand to benefit our community and the region as a whole.”
Learners on the new programme will:
- Train four times per week on the pitch
- Complete two weekly gym sessions
- Undertake a QQI Level 5 Major Award in Sports, Recreation & Exercise
- Introductory FAI Coaching Badges
- Complete Safeguarding certification and Garda Vetting
- Gain additional industry-relevant qualifications
Nationally, 75% of previous programme learners have progressed to Higher Education, with many earning scholarships and advancing into professional football environments. The programme has produced international and professional talent nationally, including players like Matt Doherty and Katie McCabe. Locally, former participant Michael Dike progressed through the pathway before securing a move to English Premier League club Brighton & Hove Albion – demonstrating the tangible opportunities available to young players in the region.
Pictured at the announcement of Treaty United FC’s new Player Development Programme, delivered in partnership with Limerick and Clare ETB, are Back row: (l–r): Ian McMahon, Managing Director, Treaty United FC; Seán O’Carroll, FET Manager, Limerick and Clare ETB; Paul Patton, Director of Further Education and Training, Limerick and Clare ETB; Evelyn O’Keefe, Senior Community Training Development Officer, Limerick and Clare ETB; and Craig Madigan, Treaty United FC Education Co-ordinator.
Front row (l-r): Treaty United FC Senior Players, Scott Murphy, Jodie Griffin, Grace McInerney, and Richkov Boevi.
Commenting on the approval of the new programme, Ian McMahon, Managing Director at Treaty United FC said: “This is a hugely significant development for Treaty United and for young players across Limerick and the Mid-West. We are now in a position to offer a genuine dual pathway – elite football training combined with meaningful educational qualifications. This programme will not only develop better players, but better prepared young adults with real opportunities both within and beyond the game.”
Under Treaty United’s delivery, the programme will aim to:
- Bridge the gap between academy and senior football
- Develop players capable of progressing to Treaty United Men’s and Women’s First Teams
- Support learners into TUS, UL, apprenticeships or employment
- Strengthen regional talent retention in the Mid-West region
Current Treaty United players who benefited from the previous programme include: Richkov Boevi, Darren Nwankwo, Scott Murphy, Kyle Foley, Grace McInerney and Jodie Griffin.
Recruitment for the positions of Programme Co-ordinator and Assistant Co-ordinator will commence shortly, with successful candidates to begin in September 2026. The new programme is now accepting applications by clicking here, with a dedicated Treaty United point of contact available for applicants. A promotional campaign for the programme, including player testimonials from current men’s and women’s senior players, will also launch in the coming weeks.
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