The future of football coaching in the Republic of Ireland looks better than ever with more courses, expert advice, opportunities and targets for aspiring coaches to aim for.

The inaugural FAI Coach Education Conference in IT Carlow provided an insight into that with over 120 coaches present for the two-day seminar that detailed the advancements in modern day coaching, in theory and practical sessions.

The range of expert speakers at the Conference included FAI High Performance Director Ruud Dokter, Danish FA Technical Director Peter Rudbaek, UEFA & FIFA consultant John Peacock, Wigan Athletic goalkeeping coach Dan Connor, FAI Head of Performance Analysis Ger Dunne, and FAI Head of Women's Football Sue Ronan. 

Attendees were treated to informative presentations that gave plenty of food for thought - relating to all levels of coaching - while the practical sessions on the pitches at IT Carlow gave the spectators a different way of approaching training drills.

FAI Coach Education Manager Niall O'Regan was delighted with how the Conference ran over the two days and feels that each of the coaches who attended will take something from it.

"For the inaugural event, it was a fabulous two days of learning. From facilities to organisation, the event went perfectly," said O'Regan.

"The guest speakers were of the highest standard and the coaches' feedback from the event has been excellent. The weekend was the start of something special and it will only grow with the 2018 dates confirmed for Saturday, November 24 and Saturday, November 25."

FAI Coach Education Coordinator Craig Sexton, who played an integral role in organising the event, said: 'Everyone in the Coach Education department is delighted with the delivery of the Conference.

"The event ran as smoothly as possible and that is due to the hard work completed by everyone involved, including those at IT Carlow and the FAI. Every possible scenario was catered for and I'd like to thank everyone for their time and effort as they contributed to making this Conference a success."

FAI High Performance Director Ruud Dokter, who was also one of the guest speakers, remarked: "The FAI Coach Education Conference was two inspiring coaching days with excellent presenters. Every one of the coaches in attendance were very engaged and I am sure that they took a lot from it."