Train, Learn, Lead

A full-year program for aspiring footballers and future professionals.

About Transition Year Program

The Klub Kildare Transition Year Program is a year-long, full-time football and education experience designed for Transition Year students who want to develop as athletes and individuals. Delivered within a League of Ireland club environment, this program blends elite-level football training with real-world learning and personal development.

Program Highlights

Football Coaching Development

  • Daily coaching from ex-professional managers

  • Completion of FAI PDP1 & PDP2 Coaching Courses

  • Full PE curriculum, including First Aid and CPR

  • Participation in structured training, games, and athletic development sessions

Education & Life Skills

  • Driver theory preparation and exam

  • Financial literacy sessions (understanding personal finance)

  • Referees course and exam

  • CV writing and mock interview coaching

  • Guidance on social media etiquette & presence

Advanced

  • Strategic planning workshops to explore career paths

  • Professional placement: students will be matched with work experience roles aligned to their interests

  • Guest speakers and industry sessions from across sports, business, and media

Student Outcomes

By the end of the program, students will:

  • Gain a nationally recognised coaching and referee qualification

  • Build confidence through real-world experience

  • Learn essential life skills like budgeting, communication, and time management

  • Understand what it takes to succeed in both football and beyond

Program details

Duration: Full academic year

Location: Klub Kildare Training Centre

Eligibility: TY students with a passion for football and personal growth

Cost: €4,850

Venues & Facilities

  • Maynooth University – Academic classes and access to world-class learning spaces

  • Kilashee Hotel – Indoor workshops and wellness

  • All-Weather Pitches – High-performance training environment

  • Swimming Pool Access – Recovery and rehabilitation sessions

Meet the Team

  • John Gill

    Head Coach

  • Mark Perth

    Assistant Coach

Course details

Course Dates

  • Term 1: 15 Sept – 24 Oct 2025

  • Term 2: 3 Nov – 12 Dec 2025

  • Term 3: 5 Jan – 13 Feb 2026

  • Term 4: 23 Feb – 27 Mar 2026

  • Term 5: 13 Apr – 22 May 2026

costs

Total: €4,850

  • €850 Deposit (due 1 June)

  • €800 per month: Sept, Oct, Nov, Feb, March