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Friday, August 28, 2026

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Girls’ national performance pathway strengthened

The Irish FA’s women’s national performance pathway has been strengthened following a series of strategic changes.

Gail Redmond has been appointed Lead Coach of the Northern Ireland Women’s Under-19 national team, following a period covering both the Women’s Under-17 and Under-19 teams.

Director of Women’s Football Angela Platt said: “This move will allow Gail to focus on one playing group within the pathway, providing greater continuity as the WU19 programme prepares players for progression towards the senior international environment.”

The Girls’ National Academy Programme has also been expanded to incorporate the Women’s Under-17 National Team programme, creating a more integrated and aligned approach to player development at a critical stage of the pathway.

Current National Academy Manager Danielle McDowell-Tuffey will lead the expanded programme, overseeing both the academy and the WU17 international team as Lead Coach.

“The new structure is designed to strengthen player support, improve alignment between development stages and enhance international readiness,” added Platt.

Recruitment will also begin for a new National Talent Programme role to lead the Girls’ National Talent Programme, supporting players aged 11-14. The role will play a key part in identifying, developing and supporting the next generation of talented players across Northern Ireland.

“We have spent considerable time planning and implementing these changes, which reflect our continued investment in the women’spathway and our commitment to building a sustainable pipeline of future international players,” said Platt.

“All three roles will work closely with our senior women’s manager, Michael McArdle, creating greater alignment between the national development programmes and the senior international team. Michael understands the importance of this part of the set up and is fully supportive of what we’re trying to achieve.

“Overall, the changes will strengthen progression opportunities from age 11 through to the senior international environment, provide clearer leadership across each stage of the pathway and enhance player development through a more connected and integrated performance structure. It’s an exciting period for us.”

Source: irishfa.com