The FAI Club Mark programme received a further boost this week as the Football Association of Ireland, in partnership with Healthy Ireland, announced the launch of the Walking Tracks Ireland fund, with a total allocation of €500,000.

This fund is specifically targeted at FAI Club Mark Clubs with 1 and 2 Star ratings, enabling these grassroots clubs to enhance their existing walking tracks, improve their facilities, and provide accessible exercise options for their local communities.

The Walking Tracks Ireland initiative represents a significant step forward in promoting healthier lifestyles through sport and community engagement. This funding will allow eligible clubs to upgrade their walking tracks, encouraging more people to engage in regular physical activity within a safe and welcoming environment.

The initiative aligns with Healthy Ireland's commitment to improving public health by encouraging physical activity and fostering community spirit. By investing in local football clubs, the programme aims to create inclusive environments where individuals of all ages can enjoy the benefits of physical exercise.

Targeted at FAI Club Mark clubs, Club Mark is three tiered accreditation award based on best practice in the governance, management and administration of a football club, partnered by Circle K. Clubs start their journey at Entry Level and can then progress to become a One Star and Two Star club, and each step challenges the club to implement policies and procedures in line with best practice. The Walking Tracks Ireland fund will now hand a further boost to those clubs striving for best practice across the country.

David Courell, Interim CEO of the Football Association of Ireland, praised the initiative; "The Healthy Ireland Walking Tracks Ireland initiative is a significant step in our mission to enhance community health and well-being through football. By providing funding for grassroots Club Mark Clubs to improve their facilities, we are giving our clubs the opportunity to maximise the benefits they can deliver for their local communities by making other forms of exercise more accessible. We are grateful to Minister Burke and the Department of Health for their vital support and collaboration - this initiative will bring lasting benefits to communities nationwide."

Walter Holleran, Head of Grant Funding & Infrastructure Development at the Football Association of Ireland, also highlighted the importance of the scheme: "We are excited to back the Healthy Ireland Walking Tracks scheme, which gives our Club Mark Clubs the chance to revitalise their walking tracks and better serve their communities. These upgrades will not only promote healthier lifestyles but also strengthen the clubs' roles as central gathering points for people of all ages. As we begin the application process and see these projects take shape, we thank Minister Burke and the Department of Health for their unwavering support."

Application Process

The application process for the Walking Tracks Ireland fund is now open, and eligible clubs are encouraged to apply. With the support of this initiative, Club Mark 1 and 2 Star Clubs can look forward to transforming their facilities into vibrant community hubs that promote health and well-being.

This announcement marks a pivotal moment for FAI Club Mark Clubs, offering them the opportunity to enhance their infrastructure and play a crucial role in the health and well-being of their communities.

To apply for the Walking Tracks fund, please follow the link to the application form HERE.

The closing date for applications is September 11th at 5:00 p.m. Late applications will not be accepted. (Only Club Mark 1 and 2 Star clubs are eligible for this fund)

Become a Club Mark Club

Any club interested in becoming a Club Mark 1 or 2 Star club is encouraged to get in touch with us for more information. To learn about the benefits and process of becoming a Club Mark club, please visit the FAI Club Mark page HERE.