NISFA
Northern Ireland Schools' Football Association
NISFA is the association for schools' football in Northern Ireland. It is run by teachers, for pupils.
We organise competitive school football for pupils aged 8 to 18, from local festivals to national finals. That means running draws, appointing referees, booking venues, resolving disputes and putting on finals days that pupils remember.
Every competition is open to any school in Northern Ireland that affiliates, whatever its size or sector.
NISFA is governed by a board of directors committed to the core values of Inclusion, Integrity, Collaboration and Enhancing Potential and to maintaining the highest standards in public life, as set out by the Committee on Standards in Public Life (the Nolan Committee) and uphold the UK Sport Code for Sports Governance ‘Five Core Principles for Good Governance’.
NISFA is built on the foundation laid by our retired members, whose dedication shaped school football across Northern Ireland into what it is today. Life membership recognises teachers and principals who have given years to schools' football. Life members advise the committee, keep the records and are on the touchline at finals.
Along with the convenor, the post-primary committee oversee the U12 to U18 cups and plates. Making the draws, setting closing dates, appoint referees for later rounds and help organise the finals.
Run the 5-a-side and 7-a-side primary schools' cups. Group schools by enrolment, assist in selecting festival venues and manages finals day.
We work alongside the Irish Football Association, education authorities and the schools' associations of the other home nations on fixtures and player release.
We have a designated safeguarding lead and a written child protection policy. Referees and squad staff are vetted. Concerns raised at a NISFA event are logged and followed up.
Competition rules are published each August. Protests, eligibility questions and disciplinary cases are heard by the committee, and decisions are sent in writing to both schools.
One member of staff and a squad is enough to enter. We will pair you with a nearby school for friendlies if you are starting out.
We appoint qualified referees to cup ties and festival pitches across the season. Match fees are paid.
Sponsorship covers officials, venues, medals and finalists' travel, and keeps entry free for schools.