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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.com

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CENTRE