SETU Arena/WWETB Player Development Programme

SETU Arena-WWETB

Programme Overview

The SETU Arena / WWETB Player Development Programme is a full-time football and education programme designed to provide aspiring footballers with the opportunity to maximise their potential both on and off the pitch.

Operating 48 weeks of the year at SETU Arena, Waterford, the programme combines high-quality football coaching, player development and education in a professional training environment.

With a pathway to professional football in the League of Ireland and abroad, the programme provides students with the opportunity to pursue their football ambitions while gaining valuable qualifications, coaching experience and opportunities for further education.

For more information, please contact [email protected] or [email protected]

Football & Player Development

Students benefit from a structured football development programme delivered by UEFA-licensed coaches in top-class training facilities at SETU Arena.

The programme focuses on developing players across all aspects of performance, preparing them for the demands of senior and professional football.

Key Features:

  • Opportunity to train every day with UEFA-licensed coaches.
  • Access to top-class training and performance facilities at SETU Arena.
  • Technical, tactical, physical and psychological player development.
  • Individual player development and progression.
  • Established pathways to League of Ireland clubs and opportunities abroad.
  • Opportunity to begin a coaching career through introductory FAI Coach Education Awards.
 
Education – QQI Level 5

Alongside their football development, students work towards a QQI Level 5 Sport & Recreation Major Award, providing a recognised qualification and a pathway into further education.

Course Modules:

  • Sport & Recreation
  • Sports Nutrition
  • Exercise & Fitness
  • Sports Anatomy & Physiology
  • Teamworking
  • Personal Effectiveness
  • Communications
  • Soccer Coaching
 
Further Education Pathways

Students can earn up to 390 CAO points, subject to the relevant QQI scoring and higher education entry requirements.

The qualification provides opportunities to progress into further and higher education, including courses related to sport, exercise, coaching, fitness and other disciplines.

Work Experience

Students have the opportunity to complete two separate week-long work experience placements in relevant sporting environments.

These placements provide valuable practical experience, allowing students to develop professional skills, gain insight into the sports industry and explore potential career pathways.

 
Additional Qualifications & Certifications

Throughout the programme, students have opportunities to gain additional industry-relevant qualifications and certifications, enhancing their skills and future employment prospects.

Additional Awards & Certifications:

  • ITEC Gym Instruction
  • First Aid Training
  • Manual Handling
  • Spin & Tone Training
  • Plyometrics Training
  • Body Sculpt Training
  • Introductory FAI Coach Education Awards

These qualifications compliment the QQI Level 5 award and provide students with opportunities to develop their knowledge and experience in coaching, fitness instruction and the wider sports industry.

Proven Player Pathway

The SETU Arena / WWETB Player Development Programme has a strong track record of supporting players in their progression towards senior and professional football.

Numerous former students have progressed to clubs in the League of Ireland and abroad, demonstrating the opportunities available through the programme.

Why Choose the Player Development Programme?
  • 48-week programme based at SETU Arena.
  • Daily football training delivered by UEFA-licensed coaches.
  • Proven football pathway to League of Ireland clubs and opportunities abroad.
  • Recognised education through a QQI Level 5 Sport & Recreation Major Award.
  • Up to 390 CAO points, subject to applicable entry and scoring requirements.
  • Additional coaching and fitness qualifications to enhance career opportunities.
  • Practical work experience in relevant sporting environments.
  • Pathways into further education, coaching and employment within the sports industry.