The Football Association of Ireland has agreed a sponsorship deal with Maldron Hotels.
As part of the deal, Maldron Hotels will serve as the title sponsor of the FAI’s Emerging Talent Programme. The length of the agreement was not disclosed.
Maldron Hotels will provide funding for coaching and training, as well as kit for players. The Emerging Talent Programme serves as the entry point for the FAI’s Elite Player Pathway, bringing through the best players from 32 schoolboy leagues across Ireland.
FAI chief executive John Delaney said: “The Emerging Talent Programme has proved to be hugely successful for the development of elite players, so it is fantastic to have the backing of Maldron Hotels for such a worthwhile initiative.
“When you consider that over 350 players who have been involved with the Emerging Talent Programme have been capped at underage level for the Republic of Ireland, it shows just how pivotal the programme is to nurturing the stars of tomorrow.
“We look forward to working closely with Maldron Hotels over the coming years to promote Irish football all around the country and, hopefully, celebrate the emergence of the next Robbie Brady.”