Treaty United secures major approval for new player development programme

TREATY United have announced that its application to deliver a new Player Development Programme in partnership with Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board has been formally approved. 

This landmark approval 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 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 educational qualifications. 

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A Proven Pathway – Now Led by Treaty United 

The Player Development Programme has operated nationally for over 15 years as part of the FAI–ETB framework. Under Treaty United’s delivery, the course will be fully aligned with the club’s football philosophy, performance standards and player welfare model. 

Learners will: 

• Train four times per week on the pitch 
• Complete two weekly gym sessions 
• Undertake a QQI Level 5 Major Award in Sport & Recreation 
• Introductory FAI Coaching Badges 
• Complete Safeguarding certification and Garda Vetting 
• Gain additional industry-relevant qualifications 

Importantly, 75% of previous learners nationally have progressed to Higher Education, with many earning scholarships and advancing into professional football environments. 

Real Pathways to Success 

The programme has already produced international and professional talent nationally, including players that include 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. 

Under Treaty United’s leadership, the programme aims 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 

Current Treaty United players who benefited from the programme include: Richkov Boevi, Darren Nwankwo, Scott Murphy, Kyle Foley, Grace McInerney and Jodie Griffin. 

A Major Boost for Limerick & The Mid-West 

Commenting on the approval, Treaty United Managing Director Ian McMahon 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."

Speaking about the announcement, Limerick and Clare Education and Training Board Director of FET Paul Patton 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."

Recruitment for the positions of Programme Co-ordinator and Assistant Co- ordinator will commence shortly, with successful candidates to begin in September 2026. 

Applications & Next Steps 

The programme will soon be listed on www.fetchcourses.ie, with a dedicated Treaty United point of contact available for applicants. 

A full promotional campaign – including player testimonials from current men’s and women’s senior players - will be launched in the coming weeks. 

For more information contact: Craig Madigan: cmadigan@treatyunitedfc.com