Over recent months, Glin Rovers FC engaged in extensive discussions regarding the future structure of soccer in our community.
As one of the founding clubs within GB Rovers, and having always viewed ourselves as the โGโ in GB, we explored a number of options that we believed would provide the best long-term future for soccer in the area. Throughout this process, representatives of Bally Rovers, as the โBโ in GB Rovers, were also in attendance and participated in discussions regarding the future structure of soccer within the community.
Our formal proposal was for all soccer to come under the Glin Rovers FC umbrella, creating a complete pathway for players from the Glin Rovers Academy through to adult soccer.
Following discussions and counter proposals, Glin Rovers FC also indicated a willingness to explore alternatives, including a model where GB Rovers would continue to provide soccer from Under 6s to Under 11s, where no competitive leagues or league tables exist, while Glin Rovers FC would provide the competitive pathway from Under 12s through underage, youth and adult soccer, allowing boys and girls to play for both clubs simultaneously.
It was subsequently brought to our attention that this alternative proposal was not included as an option in the final vote, despite receiving positive feedback when discussed during the process.
We believed these proposals would provide the best outcome for players by creating a clear pathway into junior soccer, supporting player and coach development, increasing opportunities for participation, strengthening eligibility for grants and funding, supporting future Club Mark accreditation, and helping secure the long-term development of soccer facilities within our community. We also believed this structure would provide a clear and sustainable pathway for both boys and girls to continue their soccer journey from academy level right through to adult soccer.
Following a vote, our proposals were not accepted. While naturally disappointed, Glin Rovers FC respects the outcome and wishes everyone involved the very best for the future.
Glin Rovers FC will now focus on developing soccer within our own club structure. The Glin Rovers grass pitch will be used exclusively by Glin Rovers FC teams, and we remain committed to building a strong and inclusive future for soccer in Glin through our Acorns Academy, underage, youth and adult teams for both boys and girls.
A player development framework has already been drafted within the club by FAI-trained grassroots coaches, focusing on player development through structured training plans, coaching aids, playing style, club ethos and individual skill development.
As we enter this exciting new chapter, we are calling on former players, current players, parents, supporters and all those with an interest in the future of soccer in Glin to get involved. Whether through coaching, administration, fundraising, maintenance, sponsorship or volunteering in any capacity, your support can help us continue to grow and develop the club for future generations.
We would also like to reassure all girls currently playing soccer, and those considering taking up the game, that girlsโ soccer remains a key part of our plans for the future. Glin Rovers FC is committed to providing opportunities and pathways for girls of all ages to develop, compete and enjoy soccer within their local club.
We would like to thank everyone who engaged in the discussions and supported the process.
๐ดโชโซ Glin Rovers FC