A former head physiotherapist at Ulster Rugby joined the Irish FA in a new full-time role.
Gareth Robinson has become the IFA's new Elite Youth Physiotherapist and will provide physiotherapy support in the elite player development phase which covers girls up to the age of 19 and boys aged up to 17.
Robinson brings a wealth of experience to the job having previously worked with Tottenham Hotspur, Ireland Rugby and the Irish FA's JD Academy.
Read more: Cliftonville boss determined to hold on to teen star Moore
Robinson, who was also physiotherapist with Glentoran from 2019 until 2021, said: “I am really pleased and excited to be joining the Irish FA and to have this opportunity.
“I know that my experience in elite performance sport will ensure that the physiotherapy provision for our elite pathways is delivered and the service complements the football and physical development of our young players.”
Robinson's first step into elite performance physiotherapy was at Tottenham in 1998 where he worked as assistant physio to the first team.
He returned home in 2000 to take up the post of head physiotherapist at Ulster Rugby where he spent the next 18 years. During this period he also worked with Ireland’s senior international squad as well as the Ireland A and U21 squads.
Robinson first joined the Irish FA physiotherapy set-up, on a part-time basis in 2018, working with the Under 17, 18 and 19 boys’ international squads and last year he became lead physiotherapist at the Irish FA JD Academy, a role which also included responsibility for the U16 international squad.
Andy Waterworth, Head of Elite Player Development at the Irish FA, said: “As well as co-ordinating our physiotherapy programme, Gareth’s role will also extend to looking at trends in the elite youth game such as maturation and age relative effect and burnout across the male/female pathway.
“This is a newly created role that will complement the elite player pathway and provides an opportunity to ensure continuity of service across underage elite squads.”
READ NEXT:
Belfast man completes 50 half-triathlons in one year to blitz world record
Roy Carroll using mental health battle to help young players chart careers
Donegal players must step up following Michael Murphy retirement says Paddy Carr
Sign up to our free sports newsletter to get the latest headlines to your inbox.
