The Football Association of Ireland is delighted to confirm the appointment of Conor Coad as the new Head Coach of the Republic of Ireland Amateur international team following an extensive recruitment process.

Coad, the current Head Coach of Villa FC, is confirmed in the role on the back of securing the Waterford and District Football League Premier Division title this week with a decisive 7-3 victory over second-placed Tramore AFC. It marked a remarkable fifth consecutive league title for his side. This sustained period of success also includes leading the Waterford club to FAI Junior Cup glory in 2022 with a memorable victory over Pike Rovers.

Work is already well underway in the new role, with a series of regional assessment days having taken place across the country. The focus now turns to a national assessment day at the AUL Complex on Saturday, October 4th.

Coad and his staff are preparing the squad for their first test, a friendly fixture against an ETB XI on Wednesday, October 29th, at Home Farm FC, Whitehall. A full fixture programme and schedule for 2026 are also being finalised and will be confirmed before the end of the calendar year.

Speaking on his appointment, new Head Coach Conor Coad said: "I'm absolutely delighted and honoured to be appointed Head Coach of the Republic of Ireland Amateur national team. The success we've had at Villa FC over the last few years has been incredible, and it's that journey that has given me the opportunity to take on a challenge like this. When the opportunity arose, it was one I was determined to take on.

"I'm incredibly excited to start working with the best amateur players in the country. We'll be looking at new talent, but it's also important to recognise the international experience that already exists within the group. It has been fantastic to see the quality on display at the regional assessment days already, and I'm really looking forward to the national assessment day. That will be a key part of our preparation as we build towards that first test against the ETB XI at the end of the month."