Paul Turpin introduces the FAI’s new initiative aimed at bringing Ireland’s cultures together

Free weekly soccer mornings for all lovers of the sport is the purpose of Grab a Game, a new FAI initiative in conjunction with the Leinster Football League (LFL).

Fifteen acres of amazing pitches in the Phoenix Park with dressing rooms are being provided by the LFL along with referees, bibs, cones and balls  while the FAI is contributing organisers, coaches and, most importantly, an eagerness to create a buzz.

The initiative is open to all communities, with its focus on spreading the message of union among people.

With the increasing intercultural mix in Ireland, it is vital to have opportunities for people to play and socialise together and create mutual understanding. This brings benefits for soccer, individuals and society as a whole.

Grab a Game is about getting people out of their houses, off the sofa to play soccer once a week. The benefits are numerous: you will get the opportunity to do some exercise through sport, which will lead to an improvement in your physical activity levels, connect you to other people, making new friends and increasing your social network.

The first session of Grab a Game was held on 22 October in support of Fare Weeks, part of the Football Against Racism in Europe initiative, where we brought together people from different nationalities such as Brazil, Poland, France and of course Ireland with a great atmosphere of friendship and respect.

Also in support of Fare Weeks and under the umbrella of the FAI Intercultural Programme is the Intercultural Futsal League, a programme that gathered 15 teams with more than 150 players from around the world, including Dublin’s large Brazilian community. 

The nine-week is ongoing at St Catherine’s Sports Centre in Dublin 8, with the final scheduled to be held on 22 November.

The Grab a Game invites all soccer lovers to join us every Thursday from 11am in the Phoenix Park. Adults of all skills levels are welcome – you don’t need to be a anything like a professional soccer player, you only need to have passion for the game and the will to live a happier and healthier life.

Paul Turpin is project co-ordinator with the FAI.