A new Galway team for u-19 league

By Linley Mackenzie

Galway will have a new team in the Airtricity u-19 League next season.

Galway United Supporters’ Trust, the group which had hoped to submit a license for Galway United to continue playing in the League of Ireland, have now been permitted by the FAI to have a team in the u-19 league, commencing in September.

It is hoped the team will play its home matches in Terryland Park, pending negotiations with the Galway FA.

The Galway United Supporters Trust FC u-19s will be managed by Emlyn Long, the former Salthill Devon coach, who will be assisted by Joey Power and John Clarke.

The club says it is hoping to “tap into the support of all local county and city clubs that are interested in providing a footballing pathway for their players to perform at a national level”. and Long will be commencing trials shortly in several venues.

The trust says the FAI’s decision is a further boost to the group’s “stated vision of a community-based football club representing Galway city and county”.

In a statement GUST said it would like to express its “sincere sense of gratitude to all across the community who have supported us and provided guidance and assistance”.

“A special thanks to the local clubs in the city and county, the Galway FA, and also the FAI for the confidence they have shown in approving Galway United Supporters Trust FC U19 application. Particular mention and heartfelt thanks should be made to the Maroon Army and Lotto members who have continued to support the fundraising efforts of GUST over the last number of months. Your support and encouragement keeps the flag flying.”

Members of GUST would also welcome the opportunity to continue ongoing dialogue with all interested parties throughout the community about the future of League of Ireland football in Galway.

For further details visit www.galwaysoccer.com