The Football Association of Ireland has appointed Hannah Dingley as the new Head of Women and Girls’ Football.

A UEFA Pro Licence holder, Hannah – who holds a Msc in Coaching and a BSc in Sport and Exercise – has worked as a senior lecturer in sports coaching along with having over two decades’ worth of experience working at all levels of the game.

By joining the FAI, Hannah departs as Academy Manager at Forest Green Rovers where she has worked since 2019 following previous spells with Burton Albion, Lincoln Ladies and Notts County.

Hannah said: “I’m looking forward to getting started as the new Head of Women and Girls’ Football. This is an opportunity to be part of something special in further developing football for all women and girls in what is a truly exciting period for the game.

“It is vitally important that we continue to inspire women and girls, of all ages and backgrounds, to get involved in football. It’s very clear that there are passionate people already doing incredible work in this area, from volunteers, clubs and leagues to dedicated staff in the FAI, so it will be my responsibility to support them and help to bring everything to the next level – on and off the pitch."

FAI Director of Football Marc Canham welcomed the appointment by saying: “Following a very thorough process that involved many excellent candidates, we are excited to have Hannah come in as our new Head of Women and Girls’ Football to continue the excellent work that is being done to develop the game at all levels.

“Hannah is an experienced coach with a background in the development of women’s football and is someone who will bring fresh ideas and expertise to an important role in the Football Division that will help the Association to fulfill the full potential of women and girls’ football.

“We have seen significant progress recently with participation rates for girls at an all-time high, tailored programmes such as UEFA Disney Playmakers, Primary 5s, Aviva Soccer Sisters and Cadbury Kick Fit, an increased number of women getting involved in volunteering at Grassroots clubs, rising attendances in the SSE Airtricity Women’s Premier Division, Sports Direct Women’s FAI Cup and Avenir Sports All-Island Cup, plus unprecedented growth at international level for our Ireland Women’s National Teams. Hannah will have a key role in helping to maintain this progress and also to identify opportunities for further growth.”

Hannah will commence the role from May 20th.