Campbell College is delighted to join forces with the Irish Football Association to support the next generation of football talent. The Irish FA JD National Residential Academy is a program dedicated to developing the top football talent in Northern Ireland.

Since September 2024, 23 players from across the country have made Campbell their new home, living and training within our vibrant boarding community. The players live at Campbell during the week, while continuing their education at various local schools, including Campbell. The academy provides a structured environment where these young athletes combine elite-level training with their academic studies, preparing them for the future both on and off the pitch.

The Academy players benefit from our world-class facilities and the opportunity to engage with students from over 30 countries. This mutually beneficial arrangement enriches the experience for both our pupils and the Academy players. We’re proud to be part of their journey, offering them the support, experience, and opportunities they need to succeed, both in football and in life.

This week, we were pleased to host Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill, along with senior players Brodie Spencer, Connor Bradley, and Callum Marshall, who visited to meet the Academy players. Their visit inspired the boys and highlighted the bright future of Northern Irish football.