Students’ artistic talents showcased at Flowerfield Arts Centre’s ‘Hidden Creativity’ exhibition

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Flowerfield Arts Centre is proud to announce the launch of its first exhibition of 2024, titled ‘Hidden Creativity’, a captivating showcase that brings together an array of works by past and present students from the North-West Regional College.

Featuring an eclectic mix of artistic practices including painting, sculpture, printmaking, photography, illustration, and mixed media, ‘Hidden Creativity’ explores a myriad of themes such as the natural world, poetry, music, province, locality, memory, and personal experience. The exhibition invites visitors to delve into the depths of the artists’ creative minds and witness the diverse ways in which they interpret and express their unique perspectives.

The journey of self-discovery takes centre stage as each piece on display reflects the evolution and growth of these talented artists throughout their creative endeavours.

The exhibition is now open and will run until Saturday 24 February, providing ample opportunity for art enthusiasts and the local community to visit.

Flowerfield Arts Centre welcomes visitors during regular gallery hours, Monday to Friday from 09:30am to 5pm, with extended hours on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 7pm to 9pm, and Saturdays from 10am to 1pm.

The ‘Hidden Creativity’ exhibition is part of Flowerfield Arts Centre’s January – March 2024 programme, featuring a wide range of events, workshops and exhibitions.

For more information about the “Hidden Creativity” exhibition and Flowerfield Arts Centre January – March programme, please visit flowerfield.org or call 028 7083 1400.

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 15-21 January

  1. Seedheads Arts Streets Walking Tour, Belfast, Country Antrim, 21 January. Explore the changing face of the city through its ever-evolving street art. On this gently paced, two-hour guided walking tour, you’ll see the incredible work from artists across the globe who are leaving their mark, particularly in the Cathedral Quarter. Hear their stories and get a better understanding of Belfast’s relationship with street art and how a city, long associated with murals, is changing the narrative.
  1. Copeland Distillery Tour, Donaghadee, County Down, 20 January. Situated in the old picture house a stone’s throw from the Harbour and lighthouse. This was once the busiest port in Northern Ireland with global seafarers landing with spirits and spices. Immerse yourself in the magic of the this coastal distillery where whiskey, gin and rum are made. Experience the tales of this beautiful part of the world and the great stories of smugglers and long ago battles and voyages.
  1. W5, Belfast, County Antrim, 15-28 January. A special offer this month helps make the New Year more fun for less, for all the family!  Get hands-on with over 250 interactive exhibits across eight action-packed zones, marvel at daily science shows and experience the Ghosts of Winterly Manor, all for only £7per person. This offer applies to adult, child and concession tickets only. Check website for availability.
  1. Crawfordsburn Country Park, Helen’s Bay, County Down. Located on the southern shores of Belfast Lough, this park provides a relaxing natural retreat with two excellent beaches, spectacular scenery and a tranquil walk through wooded glens and a long coastal path. There’s also a café if you need to stop to refuel. A great day out for the family.
  1. Ritual Landscapes walking tour, County Tyrone, 20-21 January. This is a unique tour which starts at An Creggan where storytelling, ecology, archaeology and folklore are combined. During this four hour walk, Martin from Foyle trails will provide many fascinating insights into the ancient ritual sites and habitats that have survived in this undiscovered part of Northern Ireland. You will explore pagan sites and standing stones and hear the stories behind them. A memorable day out.
  2. St Aidan’s Church and Holy Well, Magilligan, County Londonderry. While the ruins of the church are thought to be 13th century, the remains of St Cadan (a follower of St Patrick) are buried here, as are those of Denis Hempson a renowned blind harper known as the last of the bards. He died in 1807 at old age of 112! Explore this ancient site and learn the tales that have made it famous. Visit the water from the nearby holy well, which is said to cure ills when applied to the afflicted area!
  1. Sundar Yoga at Carrick-a-Rede, Ballintoy, County Antrim, 19 January. Wanting to kickstart 2024 with some winter wellness? Why not join yoga instructors Hatha and Chrissie for a one-hour morning session of complete relaxation at Carrick-a-Rede. After your morning flex, take a dander along the stunning 1km coastal path, taking in the breath-taking views of the North Coast, and then cross the 20-metre chasm to the island of Carrick-a-Rede!
  2. Armagh Observatory and Planetarium, Armagh, County Armagh,16-19 January. Come along midweek and enjoy the afternoon  “Birth of Planet Earth” show for a specially discounted price of £5 per person, or explore the exhibition area for just £3 per person. The show tells the twisted tale of our planet’s origins. The film explores some of the greatest questions in science today: how did Earth become a living planet in the wake of our solar system’s birth? Come along and find out!
  3. Winter Blues Floral Workshop, Ballynahinch, County Down, 21 January. Come along to the stunning surroundings of Montalto Estate and learn how to arrange your very own winter floral arrangement. Using seasonal foliage and blooms, you will be shown how to prepare and condition your stems. The workshop will be in The Coach House and is perfect for all levels. This is the perfect activity to relax and let your creativity flow. Enjoy refreshments and wonderful homemade traybakes after you create your masterpiece.
  4. Enniskillen Castle Tour, Enniskillen, County Fermanagh, throughout January. Experience Fermanagh’s unique heritage in the beautiful setting of Enniskillen Castle on the banks of the River Erne. The self-guided visit takes in the historic Castle buildings, Watergate and Courtyard.  The castle is home to the Fermanagh County Museum where you can learn about the area’s prehistory, natural history, traditional rural life, local crafts and Belleek, and history of the castle.

 

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Discover NI’s Offers of the Week

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Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

The Maldron, County Londonderry

Enjoy a two-night getaway in the heart of the Walled City in this great four-star hotel. Enjoy the various shops, museums, and street art, including the Derry Girls Mural and the newest addition celebrating the punk band The Undertones. Enjoy B & B with a two-course meal on an evening of your choice, a welcoming cocktail and a £10 gift card each to spend in the nearby Foyleside Shopping Centre. From £129 pp based on two people sharing. Visit https://maldronhotelderry.com for more information.

Watersedge Apartments, County Fermanagh

A short walk into the town centre, these modern and stylish apartments sleep up to six and are well placed to take advantage of all this beautiful part of the world has to offer. They have a luxurious home from home feel with free parking and Wi-Fi. There are all the features you would expect including a dishwasher, washing machine and dryer. There is also a 43-inch plasma TV with Freeview and large sofas in the lounge if you just want to kick back and relax. There’s plenty to do on the doorstep, from the shops and restaurants to the fabulous scenery and wonderful sights like the Castle and nearby Marble Arch Caves. If you are feeling more active, check out the range of activities on offer at Castle Archdale. From £150 per night for a two- bed apartment. Visit https://enniskillenwatersedgeapartments.com for more information.

Curran Court, County Antrim

Enjoy a two-night weekend break at the Curran Court ideally located a mere 2-minute drive from the Causeway Coastal Route. Explore the nearby wonders including the Glenoe Waterfall, The Gobbins and Carrickfergus Castle. This 33-bed hotel includes disability access and family rooms with complimentary tea and coffee. After exploring, tuck into a three-course evening meal on an evening of your choice with a bottle of house wine. From £235 per room on selected weekends throughout January and February. Visit https://currancourthotel.co.uk for more information.

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

 

4 Corners Festival To Tell The Story Behind BBC’s Blue Lights Police Drama

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The screenwriters behind the successful BBC police drama Blue Lights have joined the lineup of the 4 Corners Festival next month to tell the story behind their critically acclaimed TV show.

Writer Declan Lawn (from Ballymena) and Adam Patterson (from Dromore) will be interviewed by Ulster University student Tyree Patton who will explore the stories they chose to tell within the Blue Lights series.

Blue Lights follows new police recruits Grace, Annie, and Tommy, as they learn the ropes in a high-pressure environment.

Speaking of the event Tyree said: “I’m delighted to be getting the opportunity to interview Declan and Adam about their Blue Lights Journey. 

“The series tells an excellent story of Northern Ireland’s policing service in the 21st century and the interview taking place where part of the series was filmed makes it all the more special.

“The Blue Lights story being very fitting for the theme of the 4 Corners Festival this year, I look forward to sitting down to help tell it.”

The event, taking place at All Saints College, Glen Road on Wednesday February 7, was part of the first series.

Having now wrapped on their second series speaking at the launch of the 4 Corners Festival last month Declan revealed the challenges behind creating stories that resonate with the audiences.

He said: “All writing is a challenge, it should be challenging. If it’s not then you probably aren’t doing it right.

“It’s a very difficult thing to balance a lot of characters, authenticity is really important. So you need to do a lot of research

“Just writing is the most energising and wonderful thing I’ve ever done. But it’s also the most challenging thing I’ve ever done.”

Now in its 12th year, the 4 Corners Festival was conceived as a way to inspire people from across the city to transform it for the peace and wellbeing of all.

The festival features a range of music, discussion, sport and faith-inspired events and will run from February 1 to 11 in venues in all four corners of the city. 

Co-founder Martin Magill said securing the Blue Lights writers as part of the lineup of the festival is a fantastic opportunity to showcase storytelling at its best in the local screen industry.

He added: “I was delighted when we heard that Declan and Adam had agreed to take part in this year’s festival.  

“I found Blue Lights not only gripping and poignant but also thought provoking and challenging for example on how one of the episodes dealt with the shooting of a 15 year old child by members of an armed gang”. 

This year’s theme OUR STORIES…Towards A Culture Of Hope is about showcasing our city and our people’s stories reflecting the essence of belonging and unity within the city’s diverse community.

The upcoming festival’s suite of events is designed to entice people out of their own ‘corners’ of the city and into new places where they will encounter new perspectives, new ideas and hopefully meet new friends.

“There is a correlation between the stories we tell and the culture we live in. Stories can highlight common ground, increase understanding and create connections. They hold the power to have a positive impact on our community and promote hope for the future” explained Megan Boyd, 4 Corners Festival Administrator.

The 4 Corners Festival is supported by The Executive Office’s Central Good Relations Fund, The Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund and Belfast City Council Good Relations Fund.

All festival events are free of charge, with most open to the public, although advance booking of tickets is mandatory. Select events will be streamed online on the official 4 Corners Festival YouTube and Facebook accounts.

For more information about the festival and to keep up to date with programme updates go to 4cornersfestival.com 

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Ebrington Hotel, County Londonderry

Fancy a mini break with a three-course meal and use of amazing spa facilities? Take the stress out of the return to the daily grind with a relaxing overnight stay and a glass of prosecco or cocktail on arrival. A luxury bathrobe and slippers are provided so you can lounge and enjoy the hydrotherapy pool, sauna, and steam room. Then there’s a fabulous gourmet experience in the Oak Room Restaurant, and a hearty Irish breakfast to look forward to the next morning. From £199 per room based on two people sharing. (Excludes a Saturday and public holidays). Visit https://theebringtonhotel.com/  for more information.

The Old Inn, County Down

Enjoy a winter warmer special! Settle into a luxurious room before slipping into your cosy robe and head to the Treetop Spa to de-stress, relax and enjoy hot outdoor bathing. Treat your taste buds to an indulgent three-course dining experience in The Restaurant before soaking up the atmosphere in the 1614 Bar.  The next morning tuck into a delicious full Irish breakfast. Includes overnight stay, access to the Treetop Spa, three course dinner, full Irish breakfast. Valid Mon – Thurs. From £285 per room person based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.theoldinn.com/ for more information.

Europa Hotel, Belfast, County Antrim

Experience a giant welcome in the heart of Belfast! Superbly located to take advantage of all the city has to offer, this world famous four star is renowned for its cosmopolitan buzz, prime location, and excellent facilities. This special Sip and Sparkle offer includes a bottle of prosecco in your room and a hearty breakfast. B&B from £140 per room based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.europahotelbelfast.com/  for more information.

 

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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Here are ten exciting things to do 8-14 January

  1. Mourne Trails and Ales Tour, Newcastle, County Down, throughout January. Have you got a thirst for adventure? Then why not experience the trails, their tales and ultimately the ales of Mourne by Electric Bike. Over three hours you will explore the hidden highs and lows of the Annesley Estate, now Castlewellan Forest Park. You will be guided throughout and have the chance to try artisan ales from the Whitewater Brewery alongside some locally inspired trail cake. Check website for availability.
  2. Castle Archdale Marina Boat Hire & Water Sports, Irvinestown, County Fermanagh, throughout January. There are a range of water activities to enjoy within the grounds of Castle Archdale Country Park from kayak hire, water trampolining, cycle hire and many other activities. There are two styles of boat available for hire – that can take up to 8 people! If you don’t fancy the water, you can stick to dry land and hire bikes and take in the beautiful woodland landscape or discover the shores of Lough Erne. Suitable for individuals, families, and groups of all ages.
  3. Ulster Museum, Belfast, County Antrim. Come explore these rich collections of art, artefacts, and natural science all within the grounds of the city’s Botanic Gardens. Prepare to be dazzled by the sunken treasure from the Spanish Armada and intrigued by the ancient Egyptian mummies. There’s also an incredible video archive on the history of the troubles. It’s free entry, and there’s also a great onsite café with a hands-on interactive playroom space for little visitors. A great day out for any age.
  4. Peace Maze, Castlewellan, County Down. This is one of the world’s largest permanent hedge mazes comprising of 6,000 yew trees, planted by people from all over Northern Ireland. With a hedge length of over two miles, it’s a great fun and free family adventure. Visitors can attempt to solve their way to the peace bell in the centre of the maze. Give yourself an estimated forty minutes!
  5. Ghosts of Winterly Manor, Belfast, County Antrim, 8-31 January. W5 brings a brand-new experience for the winter months in this low-light walk-through experience that will see W5’s AMAZE space transformed into the haunted Winterly Manor. Encounters with a range of ghosts, ghouls, phantoms, and restless spirits await. Enter if you dare!
  6. Dolly Parton and Shania Twain Tribute Show, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, 13 January. A great night of entertainment for lovers of country music everywhere or just those who love fun spectacles. This tribute show will have you foot tapping your way into the dark days of January and beyond!
  7. Drum Manor Forest Park, Cookstown, County Tyrone. There’s something to delight in any season, with scenic walks around the forest and wildfowl lake. Enjoy the Japanese garden, arboretum, ponds, and mixed woodlands. There’s a variety of trails which follow a circular route, pick the one that suits you best! There’s a lovely play park, good car parking and public toilets. This area is also wheelchair accessible.
  8. George Best House Tour, Belfast, County Antrim, 12 January. Step inside the family home of footballing legend George Best, as it would’ve been in the summer of 1961 when a fifteen-year-old George left to follow his dreams in Manchester. An experienced local guide will tell you all about Best’s early life in east Belfast’s Cregagh Estate and you will have a rare opportunity to flick through his old school reports and read letters he sent home to his parents. Check website for availability.
  9. Armagh’s Ecclesiastical Trail, Armagh, County Armagh. Check out this new self-guided tour of city’s many important church sites in this city of saints and scholars. Go at your own pace and explore ten churches across the city offering a glimpse into the history, heritage, and architecture of this beautiful city. The map is available online and as a hardcopy in various venues across Armagh including Navan Fort and The County Museum.
  10. Foyle Adventures, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry. This rib boat experience will give you a new perspective on The Walled City. Expert guides will take you on an unforgettable journey delving into the city and river’s rich history. This experience isn’t just for nature enthusiasts out there but is a fun and novel way to discover more about stake in the city. Check website for availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Folk Music Stars Trú To Take To The Stage At 4 Corners Festival Next Month

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Folk music stars Trú have been confirmed as the latest musical act to be added to the 4 Corners Festival lineup next month.

The band will be taking to the stage at An Evening In Conversation with Trú where 4 Corners Festival co-founder Steve Stockman and committee member Mylie Brennan will interview the band about their background, individual experiences and the stories behind the songs.

Trú are a trio of well known musicians Zach Trouton, Dónal Kearney and Michael Mormecha who came together to refresh Irish traditional music with their songs and blended harmonies.

Their name comes from the ancient Ulster Trú who were a trio of poet-musicians whose songs told the story of the future.

Throughout the evening on Friday February 9 at Orangefield Presbyterian Church in East Belfast, the band will also perform some of their songs, Irish trad blended with the most sublime harmonies

Speaking of the event, Steve said: “We’re delighted to have Trú on board for this year’s festival and look forward to hearing the story of how Trú came to be. The band sing about some of our longest handed down local stories so for this year’s festival they were the perfect band for An Evening In Conversation.”

Best known for their debut album No Fixed Abode which Clannad’s Moya Brennan declared as “absolutely amazing”, Michael Mormecha of the band said fans are sure to hear a few of the album’s best known Gaelic Waulking and Scots lullabies songs as well as music from their recently released album Eternity Near.

He added: “We are really excited to be part of 4 Corners, the ethos of the festival really resonates with our approach to Trú, we draw inspiration from all over this island and beyond to try and create something unique and special and that’s what this festival is known for. 

“This will be our first show of the year and our first since the release of our second record Eternity Near was released with a sold out album launch in the Duncairn.”

Now in its 12th year, the 4 Corners Festival was conceived as a way to inspire people from across the city to transform it for the peace and wellbeing of all.

The festival features a range of music, discussion, sport and faith-inspired events and will run from February 1 to 11 in venues in all four corners of the city. 

This year’s theme OUR STORIES…Towards A Culture Of Hope is about showcasing our city and our people’s stories reflecting the essence of belonging and unity within the city’s diverse community.

The upcoming festival’s suite of events is designed to entice people out of their own ‘corners’ of the city and into new places where they will encounter new perspectives, new ideas and hopefully meet new friends.

“There is a correlation between the stories we tell and the culture we live in. Stories can highlight common ground, increase understanding and create connections. They hold the power to have a positive impact on our community and promote hope for the future” explained Megan Boyd, 4 Corners Festival Administrator.

The 4 Corners Festival is supported by The Executive Office’s Central Good Relations Fund, The Department of Foreign Affairs Reconciliation Fund and Belfast City Council Good Relations Fund.

All festival events are free of charge, with most open to the public, although advance booking of tickets is mandatory. Select events will be streamed online on the official 4 Corners Festival YouTube and Facebook accounts.

For more information about the festival and to keep up to date with programme updates go to 4cornersfestival.com 

10 things to do in Northern Ireland

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10 things to do in Northern Ireland

Here are ten exciting things to do 1 – 7 January

  1. The Shortcross Gin Discovery and Tasting Experience, Crossgar, County Down, 5 January. This amazing experience takes place on Rademon Estate, which dates back to AD 565. As you arrive and make your way across the stone bridge over the Ballynahinch river, up the winding forest path and onto the distillery grounds, you’ll be welcomed by your Shortcross host. Then it’s time to settle in to your visit by enjoying one of their many show-stopping cocktails at the distillery bar. Your visit includes neat tastings and a lesson on how to pour the perfect G&T, as well as creating a bespoke label and wax dipping your own personalised bottle of gin to take home.
  1. Game of Thrones Music Experience, Banbridge, County Down, 6 January. Experience the magic of the Seven Kingdoms as the Ulster String Quartet take you on a journey through all eight seasons of Game of Thrones with sounds inspired by composer Ramin Djawadi. The performance will be included in the price of admission and visitors will get the chance to hear symphonic tones fill the lobby where you can enjoy the performance with a refreshment at the beginning or end of their tour.
  1. Brian Hurst exhibition, Belfast, County Antrim, 19 October – 11 January. As Northern Ireland’s film industry continues to go from strength to strength, celebrate the life and work of the man often regarded as one of Northern Ireland’s best film directors, Brian Hurst at the Ulster Museum. Born into a working-class family in East Belfast in 1895, Hurst went on to make over thirty films and is perhaps best known for his 1951 ‘A Christmas Carol’ adaption Scrooge. This exhibition, sponsored by Quartertoten Productions Ltd in conjunction with the Brian Desmond Hurst Estate showcases posters, invitations, lobby cards and original press clippings from Hurst’s own scrapbooks.
  1. Share Village on Ice, Lisnaskea, County Fermanagh, 1-4 January. Enjoy a fantastic indoor synthetic rink, which is almost identical to a frozen surface but much more eco-friendly for all the family to enjoy. Whether you’re a budding skater or a confident glider, this wheelchair-friendly ice rink is open to all ages and abilities! Enjoy some festive fun before the holiday season is over.
  1. Gosford Karting, Markethill, County Armagh 1-7 January. Experience the thrill racing outdoors gives you at the Gosford Katring track. A member of the National Karting Association, this high-quality racing service is the perfect way to kickstart your week with some competitive fun with loved ones! Practise sessions for children aged eight years upwards are available on junior karts. For adults with a need for speed, Grand Prix karts are also available on site.
  1. Kelpra: Artists and Printmakers, Belfast, County Antrim, 1 January – April 28. Kelpra was set up by Chris and Rose (nee Kelly) Prater at their kitchen table in 1957 and went on to become one of the most pioneering print studios in history. Combining the commercial techniques of screen-printing with fine art practice. Kelpra was renowned for working in close collaboration with artists to produce daring and eye-catching original prints. The artists in this exhibition worked collaboratively with Kelpra and other print studios and these prints are the result of innovative technical and artistic expertise and the sensitive collaboration between individual artists and printmakers.
  1. New Year’s Day Guided Walk, Donaghadee, County Down, 1 January. Start the new year off on the right foot in the stunning seaside town of Donaghadee, the nearest port to Scotland and the backdrop to BBC’s crime drama, Hope Street. Guided by Dr Robert Neill, immerse yourself in stores from 1600 to the present day. Explore the history of the nearby moat, streets and churches in the town and learn about the heroic actions of the crew of The Sir Samuel Kelly lifeboat which rescued survivors from the MV Princess Victoria in 1953.
  1. Bad Bridget exhibition, Omagh, County Tyrone, throughout January. Learn some of the stories of the thousands of women who left Ireland for North America between 1838 and 1918. The exhibition, based on research from Dr Elaine Farrell and Dr Leanne McCormick, charts these women’s experience of migration through an eclectic mix of sights, sounds, smells and objects. Unlike migrants from other countries, hundreds of thousands of Irish girls travelled alone, and once in America, often faced a life of poverty and hardship.
  1. The Derry Girls Experience, Derry~Londonderry, County Londonderry, throughout January. Visit the home of Derry Girls and discover where it all began, see original memorabilia from the hit show, including Erin’s diary, Aunt Sarah’s pyjamas and Ma Mary’s Woolworths sweater, not to mention the infamous Spice Girls costumes. If you’re a Sister Michael fan don’t miss the chance to sit on her chair and roll your eyes at anyone who crosses your path.
  1. Visit Kearney Village, Portaferry, County Down. Carefully restored by the National Trust to give the authenticity of a traditional fishing village, make sure to visit Kearney village this New Year. The Trust owns a number of cottages in the area and has restored their vernacular style to give authenticity to this place of character. In the nineteenth century, Kearney was a flourishing community that is now an idyllic place of recreation. Just three miles to the east of Portaferry this is the kind of place you could find by accident yet find yourself returning to again and again.

 

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Offers of the week from Discover Northern Ireland

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Everglades Hotel, County Londonderry

Welcome in 2024 in style as you enjoy a sumptuous three course evening meal in The Grill with some of the best starters, filling mains and decadent desserts before a heavenly night’s sleep. Wake up refreshed the next morning before one final treat with a full Irish breakfast before you depart. £165 per room per night based on two people sharing. Visit https://www.evergladeshotelderry.com/  for more information.

Aurora, County Antrim

Located just a mile away from the world-famous Giant’s Causeway, Aurora occupies a truly magical vantage point on the tip of the North Antrim coast. With this special weekend offer you can embrace a relaxing start to the new year, staying Friday and Saturday from £295 per night. If the rejuvenating venue and breathtaking views tempt you into staying longer, you can add Sunday to your weekend break for only an extra £100. Visit https://www.auroranorthcoast.com/ for more information.

Book in advance to avoid disappointment. Subject to availability.

For more information on what’s on or to plan a short break in Northern Ireland, visit https://discovernorthernireland.com/

Crusaders Strikers Welcome Rising Star Mia Moore To Their Team

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In a significant boost to their squad, Crusaders Strikers have officially announced the signing of the promising young footballer, Mia Moore.

The 16-year-old midfielder, renowned for her scoring prowess, joins the Strikers after a stellar debut senior season with Linfield, where she netted an impressive 10 goals.

Jonny Tuffey, the manager of Crusaders Strikers, said he was delighted to add Mia to the team: “For someone still young in age, she has good experience playing at the first-team level as well as internationally, at U17 and U19.

“Mia’s talent and ability are clear for everyone to see, and we believe she will add strength to what I believe is already a very good group, making us more threatening in the final third.”

Moore’s football journey has been impressive from the start. She captained the U15 Bob Doc squad and progressed through the ranks to earn a call-up for the U19s at just 16.

Tuffey said the management and coaching team was “impressed” by her focus and ambition: “From speaking to Mia, it was so refreshing to hear that her sole focus was playing football, wanting to learn, develop, and improve, as well as helping us improve and become even more competitive in seasons ahead.”

Sue O’Neill, the Director of Women’s Football at Crusaders Football Club and Chairperson of Crusaders Strikers said choosing players that fit the Strikers and Crusaders club ethos is a vital part of the selection process.

She added: “Qualities we look for are a commitment to the club and a professional attitude to improving their ability.

“We have always been a club that nurtures youth, with over seven players in our first team coming through our academy.

“Mia adds to this ethos with her youth and enthusiasm to play for Strikers. There is a great support network of people who all want the player to do well.

“We also believe in checking out our players’ mental health to make sure they are valued and understood.

“We don’t just want great footballers; we want to create good people. Football provides players with great life skills.

“Setting goals, working as a team, dealing with setbacks, then going again. The Crusaders women’s football team is a family.”

Reflecting on her signing, Mia Moore said: “A couple of years ago, I came, trained, and played a match with Crusaders. I was probably around like ten or 11. But I was given an opportunity at another club.

“With the Strikers, what made me sign on the dotted line was everything from the first meeting I had with Jonny, which was great.

“Also, the Seaview Stadium facilities, and everything that goes with that is great. I played against the team last year, and I’m really excited to meet all the players and go win some games.

“Thinking ahead for the new season, I hope that we can win some trophies and move up the table.”

Moore’s addition to Crusaders Strikers heralds an exciting era for the club, signalling their commitment to fostering young talent and achieving success in the competitive world of women’s football.

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