Ennis club Fern Celtic have been awarded the FAI Club Mark.

Fern Celtic FC was established in 2001, by Leonard Meaney and Timmy Healy. In their first season, the club entered two boys’ teams in the CSSL at under 11 and under 16 competitions.

Over the following seasons, the club developed its facilities in Tiermaclane, Co. Clare, as well as increasing the number of teams. In 2012, Fern Celtic FC established their first all-girls team, at Under 12.

In the subsequent years, the number of both male and female players has increased consistently, with players starting in the U6 Academy and moving on through to Youths and the Junior Adult Teams.

Fern Celtic FC has worked with Ballyea NS, Ballynacally NS, Lissycasey NS and Crusheen NS in the FAI School SPAR 5s, enjoying success with all schools. Fern Celtic FC has also rolled out a Student Co-op programme with LIT and GMIT in conjunction with the FAI.

The facilities in Tiermaclane have been developed over the years, with a training pitch added, and a goalie/warm-up area opened. Currently, we have 237 players registered consisting of 39 Junior men and women, 36 youth boys and girls, 137 schoolboys/girls and 25 under-6 academy boys and girls. It is intended that numbers will continue to increase with the support of the FAI and participation in the upcoming Disney Playmaker Programme.

As Fern Celtic FC celebrates its 20th year, the committee, players, and supporters are delighted to receive the FAI Club Mark, as recognition of the hard work and commitment by all involved.

The FAI Club Mark is free and optional for clubs and aims to:

• Improve the management of clubs ‘off the field’
• Establish and promote best practice
• Empower and support clubs
• Recognise and reward clubs for achieving high standards
• Increase a club’s capacity to operate effectively and grow football in communities throughout Ireland.

If your club is interested in learning more about the FAI Club Mark please complete this short Registration Form.