Christopher McElligott
Dunshaughlin,Ireland
Summary
Seventeen years of expertise in coach development, specialising in disability football, player development, community engagement, and program delivery. Proven track record with the Football Association of Ireland and the Irish Amputee Football Association in building partnerships and designing inclusive programs that support the strategic growth of disability football nationally. Strong communication skills demonstrated through extensive collaboration with national governing bodies, local authorities, schools, disability services, and grassroots clubs.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
3
3
years of post-secondary education
Work history
FFA Development Officer
Football Association Of Ireland
Dublin, Leinster
06.2025 - Current
- Spearheaded delivery of Football for All initiatives across multiple regions were we increased our FFA Clubs from 50 to 90 in 3 years.
- Developed partnerships with services, schools, and community organisations to enhance outreach.
- Contributed to strategic planning for national inclusion in disability football.
- Designed inclusive programmes catering to children and adults with disabilities.
- Provided ongoing support to clubs, coaches, and players to ensure programme success.
- Mentored coaches and players within Football for All clubs to elevate skills.
- Collaborated with local councils, including SDCC, DCC, and Kildare Sport Partnership.
Director Of Football
Irish Amputee Football Association
Dublin, Leinster
03.2013 - Current
- Oversaw national coaching strategy and player development pathway for optimal growth.
- Led recruitment and player identification initiatives across Ireland.
- Delivered coach development and mentoring programmes in collaboration with IAFA in which player numbers increased by 10%.
- Supported development of junior, senior, and female amputee football initiatives.
- Collaborated with FAI and partners to enhance visibility and participation in amputee football.
Community Coach
Football Association of Ireland
Dublin, Leinster
02.2016 - 06.2018
- Led inclusive programmes to promote participation in grassroots football development.
- Supported schools and services in implementing diverse football activities.
- Facilitated FAI's grassroots initiatives to enhance community engagement.
- Mentored movement and transition of players into coaches in football for All with 10% new Coaches in Dublin area.
Education
Inter certificate -
Ballymun Comprehensive School
Ireland 08.1982 - 06.1985
Skills
Interpersonal and collaboration skills
Relationship management
Learning program development
Stakeholder engagement
Leadership and people management
Communication skills
- Mentoring and facilitation
Accomplishments
FETAC Level 5 FAI Futsal Hub Course (2013, 2014)
UEFA B Licence
UEFA A Licence
QQI Certificate in Sports Coach Development.
Diploma in Sport Management, MTU Kerry - Commencing 2026
Timeline
FFA Development Officer
Football Association Of Ireland
06.2025 - Current
Community Coach
Football Association of Ireland
02.2016 - 06.2018
Director Of Football
Irish Amputee Football Association
03.2013 - Current
Inter certificate -
Ballymun Comprehensive School
08.1982 - 06.1985