Northern Ireland have achieved so much on the
global stage and the new centre covers it all.
As the world’s fourth oldest governing body, the
story starts at humble beginnings in 1880 and
weaves its way through three appearances at
World Cup finals to the country’s first appearance
at a European Championship finals in France last
summer.
The centre enables fans to relive their favourite
moments following Northern Ireland, whether it
was that goal in Spain in 1982, the famous win
over England in 2005 or Gareth McAuley’s header
against Ukraine in Lyon.
Visitors are also able to see behind the scenes
during an official stadium tour and pop into the
newly opened JD Northern Ireland Supporters
Store at the stadium.
Education and Heritage Centre Manager Stephen
Garrett said: “We hope that this centre will
inspire young boys and girls across Northern
Ireland to dream of wearing the green shirt. From
schoolchildren to grandparents, people will leave
the stadium having understood the achievements
of football in Northern Ireland, feeling a sense of
pride at our country’s unique contribution to the
world’s number one sport and having enjoyed a
taste of the beautiful game.”
Words:
Nigel Tilson
places his famous hands in a mould
‘hands like shovels’!
Stephen Garrett, manager of the centre.
Belfast Lord Mayor Brian Kingston at an
interactive display featuring Northern Ireland
World Cup star Billy Hamilton.
www.irishfa.com41
CENTRE