By Kevin McAteer
Girls’ football in Newry is on the rise, following a 2024 partnership between the Irish Football Association (IFA) and FIFA helping to inspire the next generation of female players. The initiative, part of the FIFA League Development Programme, was focused on creating sustainable opportunities and inclusive pathways for young girls to take part in the game.
The programme made a huge impact locally in areas such as Newry and Enniskillen, where girls-only football pathways gave hundreds of young players the chance to play in safe, structured, and supportive environments. Across both areas, 43 teams from 18 clubs — involving nearly 500 players —enjoyed the benefits of regular, organised competition.
Now take a step forward to November 2025 and the Carnbane Girls Youth League has just finished its first block of fixtures in it’s second season and they are not stopping there.
Newry’s Carnbane Girls Youth League Thrives
Thanks to FIFA support, the IFA has helped establish Northern Ireland’s seventh regional girls-only youth league through the Carnbane Youth League, a long-standing organisation founded in 1968. Working closely with the Irish FA Foundation and clubs across Newry, Mourne and Down, the league now provides dedicated competitions for Under-9, Under-11, and Under-13 players.
A sub-committee within the Carnbane Youth League has been formed to promote girls’ football and ensure the league’s long-term growth. Many teams have registered, including Ashgrove Rovers, Banbridge Rangers, Midway Youth, Warrenpoint Town, Damolly, Rathfriland Youth, Moneyslane, Armagh City, Valley Rangers Youth and Camlough Rovers.
“We are thrilled to partner with the Girls Carnbane Youth League,” said Abbie Magee, Irish FA Foundation Games Development Officer. “The establishment of the girls-only league has been a significant milestone for girls’ football in Newry. Together we can create a legacy of empowerment and opportunity.”
Joanne Patterson, Chairwoman of the Carnbane Youth League, said the response to the new season has exceeded expectations.
“We’ve had a fantastic start to the 2025/26 Carnbane Girls Youth League season, with brilliant energy and commitment from all 17 teams taking part,” she said. “It’s inspiring to see so many young players enjoying their football and developing their skills in such a positive environment. The support from local clubs, coaches and parents has been tremendous, and it’s clear that girls’ football in the Newry, Mourne and Down area continues to go from strength to strength. We’re really looking forward to seeing the league grow even further over the course of the season.”
2025 and Girls’ Football on the Rise Nationwide
The enthusiasm seen in Newry and Enniskillen reflects a wider trend across Northern Ireland. Grassroots participation in girls’ football has reached record levels, with more clubs fielding female teams and new leagues emerging each year.
“Over the past few seasons, we’ve seen incredible growth in participation, especially at grassroots level,” said Abbie Magee, Irish FA Foundation Games Development Officer . “These new regional leagues mean more girls than ever are getting the chance to play, compete and dream big. It’s a really exciting time for the sport.”
Local players are also embracing the opportunity to get involved.
With dedicated volunteers, supportive communities, and continued backing from the IFA and FIFA, girls’ football in Northern Ireland is experiencing a powerful surge in energy and enthusiasm. The establishment of new leagues, player pathways and development centres is not only helping young players enjoy the game but also shaping a stronger, more inclusive future for football across the country.
ENDS
CLANRYE NEWS 