Statement from Management Committee of Cork Schoolboys League

Please find below a statement on behalf of the management committee of the Cork Schoolboys League re the SFAI National Cups 2013/14.

“The Cork Schoolboys League wishes to put on record it’s unequivocal support for the stance taken by 11 of it’s member clubs in the face of the biased and unjust manipulation of this year’s SFAI National Cup competitions.

The management committee commends all 11 clubs for their courage and resolve. Withdrawing teams from such prestigious competitions is a tough decision and involves considerable sacrifice for players, coaches and parents. It is to the credit of all involved that the clubs remained steadfast and took such a principled stand on such an important issue.

The Cork Schoolboys League would especially like to thank Ballinasloe Town who, alone among non-Cork clubs, offered full support and joined our clubs in withdrawing from the competitions. They will always find a warm welcome on Leeside.

Every child affiliated to the Schoolboy Football Association of Ireland deserves to play in competitions where the rules are applied evenly and fairly. This opportunity has not been offered to the players of 31 leagues and natural justice demands that this situation be redressed.

The Cork Schoolboys League calls upon the FAI to revisit this issue as a matter of urgency. It is not too late to restore the authority of the SFAI rulebook and to have these important competitions played off in a fair and sporting manner.

Correspondence has been issued earlier today by the management committee of the Cork Schoolboys League to Mr. John Delaney, CEO of the Football Association of Ireland, concerning the SFAI National Cups 2013/14 and we await his reply to same.”

For and on behalf of the Management Committee of the Cork Schoolboys League,
Eddie Doyle
Hon. Secretary
Cork Schoolboys League

12th February, 2014.