Mayo soccer clubs receive distinction

Two of Mayo's biggest soccer clubs, Castlebar Celtic and Westport United, have received a distinction from the FAI after being awarded the FAI Club Mark One Star Player Development Centre Award.

The FAI Club Mark is an award for grassroots clubs based on best practice in their management and administration. The award aims to support and encourage clubs to improve standards off the field with the result of having stronger clubs and a stronger game.

As an FAI Club Mark One Star Player Development Centre, each club have demonstrated a consistent and high standard of: club governance and administration; child welfare, safeguarding and coach education; club player development plan; club coaching structure; and engagement with FAI programs.

A statement from Castlebar Celtic said the award is a "testament to our coaches, players and club volunteers who work so hard developing both on and off the pitch."

"Castlebar Celtic would like to thank FAI Development Officer Nigel Naughton for his support and guidance. The club looks forward to working closely with the FAI on future initiatives," said the county town club.