Outdoor football programme for young players

The Cavan Monaghan Underage League (CMUL) has announced an exciting new outdoor football programme aimed at boys and girls aged 6 to 11, offering a fun, accessible introduction to the sport across the region.

Running over eight Friday evenings starting May 8, the initiative will take place across three central venues in Clones, Castleblayney, and Cootehill.

The programme will feature football blitzes running parallel in different agegroups - designed to maximise participation, enjoyment, and skill development for young players of all abilities.

Organisers say the goal is simple: get more children involved in football and ensure that every child interested can find a local club to join - anywhere from from Glasslough to Ballyjamesduff.

With 15 clubs already participating, the programme currently includes around 85 teams and is expected to engage approximately 700 children from across the region. Shane Coyle, one of the programme organisers, explained that the structure is focused on creating a positive and player-centered environment.

“We want kids to have as many touches on the ball as possible,” he said. “That’s where the real learning happens - through playing, making decisions, and even making mistakes.”

To support this philosophy, games will be played in smaller formats. Younger age groups will compete in five-a-side matches, while older children will play seven-a-side, with additional opportunities for three-versus-three games. This approach encourages more involvement, quicker decision-making, and improved technical skills - hallmarks of the “street football” style promoted by the Football Association of Ireland.

Another key feature of the programme is its family-friendly scheduling. By hosting multiple age groups at the same venues and times, organisers aim to ease the burden on parents juggling siblings playing in different locations. The programme will culminate in a major festival of football on July 18 at the Peace Link, where all participating teams will come together for a large-scale tournament.

The CMUL is particularly encouraging newcomers and especially girls to take part. Children interested in joining are encouraged to reach out to their nearest participating club and get involved. More information can be found on the CMUL facebook page.