Shelbourne Football Club's 2026 summer camps successfully engaged 800 children across Dublin and surrounding areas. The program ran from July 6 to August 21, providing football coaching and club connection at nine different affiliate locations.
This initiative comes as Shelbourne prepares for its next League of Ireland Premier Division fixture against Drogheda United on September 14 at Tolka Park. The club finished the 2025 season in a strong third place with 59 points, scoring 48 goals and conceding 37. They currently sit seven points behind league leaders Shamrock Rovers in the early 2026 title race.
The camps were hosted at nine partner clubs, creating a wide geographical reach for young fans. Locations included Artane Beaumont FC, River Valley Rangers AFC, Clontarf FC, and Drumcondra AFC. Further camps took place at Liffeybank FC, Baldoyle Utd, Kilcock Celtic FC, and Howth Celtic FC. This network allowed children from various communities to access high-quality coaching under the Shelbourne banner without extensive travel.
Shelbourne FC reported the news on its official website. The club's recent form shows one win, three draws, and one loss in their last five matches, including a 1-2 defeat to St Patrick's Athletic on August 9. Fans can track the team's progress on the official standings page.
Direct feedback from participants showed the program's success. Ten-year-old defender Sophia, who attends Burrow National School in Sutton, attended her first Shelbourne camp. "This is my first time at a Shels camp and I’ve really enjoyed it; it’s been really fun," she said. Her experience reflects the club's aim to attract new young supporters.
Seven-year-old winger Sonny, attending his third consecutive summer camp, demonstrated the program's ability to build lasting loyalty. He mentioned watching teams play at Tolka Park, showing how the camps bridge the gap between grassroots participation and first-team support. Even the youngest attendees, like five-year-old Bodhi who described himself as a Shels fan, left with a strengthened connection to the club.
First-team players took an active role, bringing elite experience directly to the grassroots level. Mya Sanchez, Brie Severns, and Olivia Damico all coached sessions at the Howth Celtic FC location. Their involvement provides aspirational figures for camp attendees and reinforces the club's integrated philosophy from academy to senior squad.
The club's squad depth and player availability for such community work is a positive sign as they build towards their next home match. Supporters can view the full roster on the club's squad page.
Shelbourne FC extended gratitude to several key individuals and groups who made the summer program possible. Community Officers Tony and Kristen were recognized for their organizational work, alongside Sustainability Officer Ann Murray. The club also thanked all affiliate clubs, the team of coaches, and the parents and children who participated.
This community effort aligns with the club's broader objectives during a period of on-pitch competitiveness. With a goal difference of +11 from the 2025 season, the foundations are strong both in the league table and in local engagement.
The club has already announced plans to reveal details for its 2027 summer camps. Information will be released via the official Shelbourne FC website and the club's social media channels. This forward planning ensures the initiative's continuity and allows families to schedule well in advance.
Shelbourne's next challenge is a home fixture against sixth-placed Drogheda United on September 14, a match detailed on the club's fixtures page.
