Lizzy Kent says league is possible but sustainability unclear

FAI women’s football chief Lizzy Kent told a briefing on Wednesday that a fully professional League of Ireland Women’s Premier Division is possible, but she warned that its long‑term sustainability must be proven before any move is made.

Why the FAI is pushing for a professional league

Kent, who has been in the role for over six months, said the association started the process two or three years ago and is now in a business‑planning phase. She stressed that growth in attendances and revenue is essential for a viable professional structure.

She also highlighted the FAI’s push for an U21/23 international side to bridge the gap to senior level, although she admitted no concrete update has been received from UEFA yet.

“We’re two or three years into it. It has to be a sustainable piece. Yes, it is possible. Is it sustainable?” Kent asked, echoing the concerns raised by international lead coach Chelsea Noonan.

What a professional league could mean for Irish women’s football

Professional contracts were introduced in December 2022, yet only 24 players held such deals last season, half of them at double champions Athlone Town. Kent praised the “really positive direction” shown by contracts, academies and a planned second senior tier for 2028.

Athlone Town and Shelbourne, two of the league’s top clubs, will meet in the FAI Cup final on 27 September, underscoring the competitive growth of the women’s game.

Chief executive David Courell confirmed the FAI’s commitment to the new UEFA tier at U21 level, but no timeline has been set. Kent noted that director of football John Martin has “put a lock on his door” to keep discussions confidential.

The department is drafting a new action plan for 2027 onwards, covering participation, pathways, competitions, visibility and sustainability. Kent, formerly involved with the U19s, said the National Pathways Plan and a new U15 team are already in place.

The FAI’s online portal lists GAA, Soccer, LOI, Rugby, Golf, Racing, Upgrade, Subscribe, Sign, League, Ireland, Horse, Boxing, Motorsport, Athletics, NFL, NBA, TV, Listings, Quizzes, Live, Blogs, Fixtures, Video, Review, Podcasts, Sport, Weekly, Extra, Dive, Football, Family, See, Advertisement, More, Stories. The announcement, marked as NEW HEAD OF Women, was made by Lizzy Kent.