Eileen Gleeson has been appointed Head of Women and Girls’ Football by the FAI.
Gleeson recently left her role as manager of Glasgow City having previously spent two years as assistant coach to Vera Pauw with the Republic of Ireland Women’s national team.
Gleeson enjoyed tremendous success in the SSE Airtricity Women’s National League by guiding Peamount United to League and Cup success, as well as a run to the last-32 of the UEFA Women’s Champions League. Gleeson also brought UCD Waves to the FAI Women’s Cup Final.
Along with her coaching achievements, Eileen has also completed an MSc in Coaching & Exercise Science, is finishing a PhD for her specialised topic analysing expert decision-making in elite soccer and spent almost two decades as a Sports Officer with Dublin City Council.
“I’m delighted to join the FAI on a full-time basis as the Head of Women and Girls’ Football in what is a really exciting time for women and girls’ football, from Grassroots all the way up to international level” explained Gleeson.
“Having been involved in football all of my life, I believe this role gives me a great opportunity to have a positive impact in ensuring that all women and girls feel that they can enjoy football, no matter what level it may be”.
“I’m looking forward to working with my new colleagues in the FAI and everyone connected with women and girls’ football around the country to help add to and support the excellent work that is already being done within communities, clubs and leagues.”
Gleeson will reporting to FAI Director of Football Marc Canham, Eileen will be responsible for helping to grow participation and retention of women and girls at all levels of the game. While also supporting wider football development strategies.
The FAI also announced; Tom Elmes and Andrew Holt have been appointed to full-time roles with the women’s national team.
Elmes, who is Assistant Manager, will step away from his role as women’s Under-16 head coach to assist Vera Pauw on a full-time basis for the period leading up to and including the FIFA Women’s World Cup.
Also part of the WNT backroom staff, Holt will move to a full-time position as Performance Analyst for the same period of time as he will be on secondment from the FAI Football Division.
