Coach Dismissed After Inappropriate WhatsApp Post
A children's football coach has been permanently removed from his position after sharing what appeared to be a drugs menu within a coaches' WhatsApp group. The incident occurred on Wednesday, 27th November 2025, sending shockwaves through the local football community.
The message, which was later deleted, contained a detailed list resembling a drugs menu with prices, payment instructions, and designated meet-up points. It also included the stark warning: 'time wasters will be blocked'. The group in question contained coaches from multiple children's football teams, though no young players were members of the conversation.
Club and League Respond Swiftly
A Belfast football club quickly issued a social media statement confirming the coach's immediate and permanent removal. The club described the behaviour as 'completely unacceptable' and expressed shock that the situation occurred despite all appropriate vetting procedures being followed in line with Irish Football Association (IFA) guidelines.
The club's statement emphasised: 'As a community club, we pride ourselves on putting the best interests of our players first.' They confirmed they are treating the matter with the utmost urgency.
The Fonacab Development League also released a statement, clarifying that while it 'cannot monitor or control every message shared between coaches', it has clear behavioural expectations. The league stated that any conduct breaching safeguarding or professionalism would be addressed immediately, with their primary responsibility being to protect child well-being.
Safeguarding in Youth Sports Under Spotlight
This incident has raised significant questions about safeguarding protocols in youth sports. While the club confirmed proper vetting was completed, the event highlights potential vulnerabilities in monitoring conduct outside formal sessions.
The immediate dismissal demonstrates the zero-tolerance approach organisations are taking towards any behaviour that could compromise child safety or the integrity of youth sports. Both the club and league have reaffirmed their commitment to upholding the highest standards of professionalism.
