The Women's National League has gone from strength to strength in recent years with half of the Republic of Ireland Women's National Team squad competing in the domestic league.

Currently an eight-team league, which Limerick FC joined this season, the Football Association of Ireland is looking to expand the league to correspond with the growth of the women's game in Ireland.

With over 22,900 registered players in Ireland and a new 11-team Women's Under-17 National League introduced this year, it's important to look for the next step of progression at the top level of the women's game in Ireland.

The successful applicants would compete in the 2019 Continental Tyres Women’s National League. Any club/entity joining the Women's National League would be required to enter into a Participation Agreement with the FAI and meet the strict requirements within that agreement.

These standards include full use of appropriate stadia, specific coaching qualifications for coaches, medical cover, a youth development structure and financial sustainability.

FAI Director of Competitions Fran Gavin said: "We're delighted with the progress being made across the Women's National League and it's important to take the next step forward.

"We've just launched a new Women's Under-17 National League which is only going to increase the number of elite players and they will need more senior clubs to move to in the future.

"We've got a high number of internationals in the league which shows the quality of the teams has really improved over recent years. With the growth of the women's game in Ireland, it's important to have more clubs from around the country so players can participate at an elite level.

"Any club or entity will have to meet the high standards of the participation agreement as it is important to try and improve every aspect of the league, on and off the field. Relevant stadiums, coaching-quality and a player pathway are extremely important features for a Women's National League club."

Clubs or entities who intend to express an interest should do so by registered post to the address given below by Friday, August 17, stating name, contact and current or intended development structures.

Women’s National League,
Director of Competitions
Competitions Department
Football Association of Ireland
National Sports Campus
Dublin 15