About
Who we are
NISFA is the association for schools' football in Northern Ireland.
Purpose
Creating inclusive opportunities for pupils in football
Established in 1931, the Northern Ireland Schools' FA organise competitive school football for pupils aged 8 to 18, from local festivals to national finals. The purpose of NISFA is to support the mental, moral and physical development of young people through football, promote schools' football at every level and provide opportunities that place pupils at the centre of all we do.
Every competition is open to any school in Northern Ireland that affiliates, whatever its size or sector.
How we work
Run by volunteers, principals, teachers and retired life members
THE BOARD
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’.
Chair
Kyle Ferguson (Independent Director)
Honorary Secretary
Ashton Shields
Honorary Treasurer
Greig Savage
Directors (alphabetical by surname)
- Jessica Foy
- Julie Houston
- Neil McGaughey
- Alan Stewart (Independent Director)
Life members
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.
Post-primary committee
Along with the convenor Edwin Ferris (boys), 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.
Primary committee
The Primary Committee oversees the national 5-a-side and 7-a-side primary schools' cups. They tier competitions by school enrolment size, assist in selecting regional festival venues, and manage the national finals day.
Partners
Working with others
We work alongside the Irish Football Association, Ulster University, Queen's University, education authorities and the schools' associations of the other home nations.
Policy
Safeguarding, rules and discipline
Get involved
Three ways to help
Teachers
Run a team
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.
Referees
Take a whistle
We appoint qualified referees to cup ties and festival pitches across the season.
Sponsors
Back a competition
Sponsorship covers officials, venues, medals and keeps entry fees minimal for schools.
