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Manager Noel King expressed his satisfaction with the news; 'We are obviously delighted with the improvement as it reflects the progress we made in the 2004 /2005 seasons. Getting promotion was one thing, but beating Belgium and Sweden during the year and winning our first ever World Cup point in Scotland was very satisfying.'
Ireland's Women's recent promotion to the top flight of Womens Soccer has coincided with improved performances at Under 19 International levels and suggests a bright future for Irish Womens soccer, a point King was anxious to elaborate on.
"When you consider that Sue Ronan's under 19's beat mighty Norway 2-0 to reach the elite knockout stages of the UEFA Championships next April, and that Marie Price Bolger's U17 side defeated a powerful Australia team 3-0 last week, these are astonishing results, which haven't received the credit they deserve in the sporting world, but they excite me and give hope that our future can be even better. Everywhere I go girls are now eager to play football, there is potential for a boom period of participation in female football in Ireland, which we must build on" he added.
Warming to his subject King pointed to the FAI as being the key factor if Ireland's women are to take full advantage of their potential.
"These levels of interest put huge pressure on the resources of the FAI and its member Leagues and Clubs. The FAI and its members have thrown the full weight of the Association behind the women's game.
A dedicated Womens unit has been set up and over 50 Development Officers now include women's development as part of their full time brief.
The foundation is being laid, and it will take some time to get it right in the future but the good news is we are way ahead of schedule in terms of the Women' Development Plan," concluded King.