FAI appoint Eileen Gleeson as new Head of Women's Football

Eileen Gleeson has been appointed to the newly created role of Head of Women and Girls' Football in the FAI.

Gleeson recently left her role as manager of Glasgow City having previously spent two years as assistant to Republic of Ireland manager Vera Pauw.

With a strong coaching background both domestically and in the international game, the FAI said her "genuine passion" will be a huge help in pushing women's football to greater heights.

Gleeson boasts a track record of success in the Irish game. She guided Peamount United to league and cup glory, as well as a run to the last 32 of the UEFA Women’s Champions League, while also leading UCD Waves to the FAI Women’s Cup final.

She's finishing a PhD for her specialised topic analysing expert decision-making in elite soccer and spent almost two decades as a Sports Officer with Dublin City Council.

Reporting to Director of Football Marc Canham, Gleeson will be primarily responsible for helping to grow participation and retention of women and girls at all levels of the game.

"Having been involved in football all of my life, I believe this role gives me a great opportunity to have a positive impact in ensuring that all women and girls feel that they can enjoy football, no matter what level it may be," she said.

FAI CEO Jonathan Hill said the appointment is a significant step in delivering real change in the women’s game.

"We believe Eileen’s wide experience within the game is perfect for delivering real growth and change and I wish her well in the role."

Elsewhere, Tom Elmes, assistant manager to Pauw, will step away from his role as women’s U-16 coach to assist Pauw on a full-time basis ahead of and during the upcoming World Cup.

Another member of Pauw’s backroom team, Andrew Holt, will