The Football Association of Ireland is seeking preliminary expressions of interest from non SSE Airtricity League clubs or entities to participate in a new National Under 15 League.

The new National League will begin in August 2017, which will be a truncated season, followed by a full 2018 season. 

The new Under 15 National League follows the success of the SSE Airtricity Under 17 and Under 19 National Leagues and will strengthen the elite player path-way across the country.

The success of the Under 17 and Under 19 National Leagues has been highlighted this season with Cork City Under 19s' progression in the UEFA Youth League and a number of international call-ups to the Republic of Ireland Under 21s, Under 19s and Under 17s.

FAI High Performance Director Ruud Dokter believes the creation of the Under 15 league is another important step in improving the structure of Irish domestic football.

Dokter said: "Having witnessed the success of the Under 17 and Under 19 leagues, it is important we continue to improve the path-way with the creation of an Under 15 league.

"The best players are playing in the national leagues, working with highly-qualified and educated coaches, and playing with the best and against the best.

"All these factors guarantee the correct learning and development. Our aim is to continue to put the right structures in place whilst working with and supporting all clubs.

"I've no doubt that the growth of the underage structures at all clubs will ultimately lead to better players playing in better teams in a stronger domestic game where we can progress international talent."

Clubs or entities who intend to express an interest should do so by registered post to the address given below before October 25, 2016, stating name, contact, and current or intended youth development structures.

National Under 15 League,

Director of Competitions

Competitions Department

Football Association of Ireland

National Sports Campus

Dublin 15