FAI Mid-Louth Late Night Leagues a resounding success
The leagues offer a vibrant, welcoming space where young people can enjoy football and build friendships in a secure environment
The most recent edition of the FAI Mid-Louth Late Night Leagues concluded with resounding success over the past month.
Hosted biannually in Ardee during May and November, the leagues offer a vibrant, welcoming space where young people can enjoy football and build friendships in a secure environment—particularly during hours often associated with anti-social behaviour.
First introduced in various Dublin communities in 2008, this initiative was designed as a proactive measure to promote positive interaction between young people and members of An Garda Síochána, while fostering a greater sense of unity within local communities.
Though open to all, the programme primarily focuses on supporting young people considered ‘at risk,’ providing them with a purposeful outlet and meaningful engagement with Gardaí and youth workers alike.
The Mid-Louth leagues have, for several years, been coordinated by the Mid-Louth Youth Service.
Reflecting on its ongoing success, youth worker Niall Newberry said: “We are absolutely thrilled once again with the level of community participation and support.
"The programme has seen steady growth here in Mid-Louth and continues to thrive year after year.”
He emphasised that the leagues are about far more than football, highlighting their role in advancing social inclusion and breaking down barriers.
“The presence of the Gardaí is crucial—they’re not just supporting the event, they’re helping to build trust and understanding", Niall continued.
"Their involvement, alongside unwavering support from Mick Neville of the FAI and John Sheridan of Louth County Council, has been vital to the programme’s success.”
The availability of the Garda bus, he added, has been instrumental in extending the programme’s reach.
“It allows us to include young people from the Dunleer area, ensuring they can participate fully. Seeing local Gardaí actively engage with and support these young people is incredibly powerful and truly aligns with our vision.”
Niall paid tribute to An Garda Síochána for their consistent support saying: “We are deeply grateful to Gda Niall Keenan, who has gone above and beyond in providing weekly transport for the Dunleer group.
"His efforts ensured every young person could attend safely and return home afterwards.
“We were also delighted to have Gda David Oliphant actively participating in the games each week, bringing great energy and approachability to the pitch.
"Gda James Carolan and Kevin Conway likewise offered tremendous support throughout the past four weeks, contributing significantly to the programme’s success.”
A celebratory event was held at the Dee Hub in Ardee to honour the participants. F
our standout players—Adam McConnan, Cameron Yore, Craig Keatinge, and Rhys Murphy—were named Players of the Week.
An additional accolade was awarded to Cillian Goodman for Best Goal.
The Ardee Late Night Leagues are delivered through a partnership between Mid-Louth Youth Service, An Garda Síochána, and the Football Association of Ireland.
Held every Thursday from 7pm to 9 pm in May and November at the Fairgreen in Ardee, participation is free and open to all.
For more details, contact Niall Newberry at [email protected].