DCU Soccer and Home Farm FC to participate in new FAI National League
The FAI has announced that DCU Soccer and Home Farm FC will participate in the new FAI National League from 2027.
The FAI National League, is a new third-tier men's football league being integrated into the League of Ireland pyramid, aiming to bridge grassroots with elite football. It will comprise circa 20 clubs in North/South groups, and will form a key part of the FAI's Football Pathways Plan to create a structured system with clear development routes for young, talented footballers focused on the 18-23 year cohort.
DCU Director of Sport James Galvin said;
“DCU are delighted to partner with Home Farm FC in this exciting initiative. This new model will be built on education, sport and community and will offer structured third-level education opportunities and scholarships for elite players, ensuring they can pursue both their football and academic ambitions at DCU. Home Farm are our neighbours in the community, and a household name in Irish football, we look forward to working together to make this a reality for students and a successful partnership.”
Home Farm FC Chairperson Brendan Menton said;
"As Home Farm FC approaches its centenary in 2028, participation in this exciting new football development will provide a pathway for young players to elite levels of football and also provide an academic pathway for players through access to football scholarships in DCU. Home Farm see participation in the FAI National League as a first step in restoring the Club as one of the foremost football academies in Ireland."
DCU Soccer Development Officer and Head Coach Fran Butler said;
“This is an excellent step forward for football at DCU, in partnership with Home Farm FC. It will help raise the profile of the sport at our University, with students now having the opportunity to play football at a national league level and compete in the FAI Cup. Home Farm are part of Dublin’s football heritage, with a long tradition of youth football development. DCU is excited to form this partnership with such an integral part of our local community.”
The partnership builds on an increasingly strong foundation for football at DCU, which currently includes six intervarsity teams, and a multi-faceted relationship with League of Ireland club Bohemian FC.