Swords Pavilions Is “Road to Poland” Partner

Republic of Ireland manager, Giovanni Trapattoni recently launched the FAI/ County Council, in conjunction with Swords Pavilions grassroots initiative - “The Road to Poland”. This grassroots initiative has been a fantastic success to date with three after school coaching programmes set up in Balbriggan, four more planned for Swords and a unique “Road to Poland” 4v4 tournament play competition. One lucky winner from this competition will be a mascot in the Aviva stadium for the last home friendly, Republic of Ireland v Bosnia before the team sets off for Poland and EURO 2012. Under the guidance of FAI/Fingal County Council development officers, Paul Keogh and Michael Pender, the partnership with Swords Pavilions has meant close to 500+ boys and girls in primary school will have Euro 2012 brought a little closer to them. Commenting on the initiative, FAI Head of Grassroots, Liam McGroarty said: “We are delighted Swords Pavilions have come on board as a community partner and we look forward to the excitement of Poland and the build up through programmes such as these.” Ian Hunter, Centre Director at Swords Pavilions commented: “We are delighted to be a FAI Community Partner supporting their grassroots skills programme. Both the After Schools Skills programme and Road to Poland 4v4 Skills programme are great initiatives that provide an opportunity for kids to get involved in sport and learn new skills. We see this partnership as a key element of our involvement in our local community.”