There may be no international games for the Republic of Ireland Women's Under-17s due to COVID-19 but they are making the most of this period by beginning their coaching jouney.
Head Coach James Scott has maintained contac with his squad over the last number of months to track their progress at club level, provide training routines and to host team webinars.
As part of that process, the Football Association of Ireland will provide free places for all of the players on a PDP 1 coaching course, which is the entry point to the Coach Education Pathway.
Assistant Coach Irene Hehir said: "I think it's brilliant that the girls get the opportunity to take a PDP1 at this point in their football careers. They will further their education of the game from another viewpoint while beginning their pathway to possible coaching roles within their clubs.
"The biggest benefit of this is the impact it will have on the future players of the game. Having an international player, no matter what age, to teach them the game at the first level will show the young girls and boys that anything is possible."
Shelbourne captain Pearl Slattery knows exactly what its like to pursue coaching qualifications while still playing as she holds the UEFA A Licence.
Slattery also works with the Ireland WU17s and she has been encouraging the girls to be receptive to learning more. She said: “This is a terrific initiative to allow the girls to take their first step on the Coach Education Pathway.
"It’s vital that we provide opportunities for current players to get involved in different strands of the game early on in their careers and to keep them involved going forward.
"This is a chance to educate themselves from a coaching perspective and also a chance to give back to their local clubs while inspiring the next generation."
