The Carlow & District League (CDL) has once again expressed firm opposition to the proposed Football Association of Ireland (FAI) calendar change, which would align the grassroots season with the League of Ireland schedule. The proposal will be put to a vote at the FAI General Assembly on Thursday, December 5, where 135 representatives from across Irish football will decide on the matter.
The new calendar, if approved, would see fixtures shift to a summer-based schedule, with seasons running from mid-February to November, similar to the League of Ireland. This would replace the current school calendar-based season, which runs through winter months.
In a statement posted on X (formerly Twitter), the CDL emphasized the overwhelming rejection of the proposal by local clubs:
“Our opposition is based on evidence. Both the CDFL and CDJL balloted our Clubs on the FAI Proposal. The result was clear and unanimous. A resounding 100% of Clubs in both Leagues rejected the FAI Calendar Year – Summer Season proposal and wish to remain in the longstanding School Calendar – Winter Season. Our Clubs have given a clear mandate to our Leagues that we shall remain in our current season which suits our Clubs, Players, Volunteers, and Communities.”
The CDL also pointed to broader opposition across Leinster:
“We note that the Leinster Football Association (LFA) balloted Leagues in the Province on the FAI Proposal, with 85% of Clubs in Leinster voting to reject the proposal and wish to remain in the School Calendar – Winter Season. Leagues in Leinster have over 120,000 registered players. We further note that the result of this ballot was provided to the FAI Football Pathway Planning Committee at a meeting with the LFA Executive Committee on August 15th, 2024.”
Statement on behalf of our clubs in advance of the @FAIreland general assembly meeting. @harrysarticles @kclr96fm @Natsport @offtheball pic.twitter.com/bHu4uNNX1w
— Carlow Soccer League (@CarlowSoccer) November 24, 2024
Kilkenny Set to Discuss Proposal
Neighboring Kilkenny leagues are also engaging with the issue. A council meeting has been scheduled for next Monday to discuss the proposed calendar with local clubs.
Further insights into both perspectives will be available on KCLR’s Kilkenny and Carlow Soccer Podcasts later this week.
Congratulations to John McClean
In related news, John McClean, host of KCLR’s Kilkenny Soccer Podcast, has been appointed as Head of the CK United Academy. McClean, who has previously worked with Damien Duff at Shelbourne, brings a wealth of experience to his new role.
